The Civics programme is unique to Morrison's Academy, having been planned by all the teachers and encompassing P1 - S6.  It is an innovative curricular development that is intended to provide core learning not covered elsewhere in the curriculum. 

Civics supports the ethos of the school in instilling values of honesty, tolerance, respect for others and a willingness to co-operate and to share.  The programme aims to encourage and support the personal development of our pupils and is concerned with: self esteem, self awareness, social development, interpersonal relationships, independence, interdependence and the development of skills which help pupils to work independently; participate effectively in groups, make their own decisions and access their own abilities and capabilities.  Civics is designed to meet our aim of "developing the whole child".  It relates to our developing status as a health-promoting school and a rights respecting school. 

This programme is very much in line with the national review of the curriculum: A Curriculum for Excellence which has as its aim that all young people are enabled to become confident individuals, successful learners, effective contributors and responsible citizens.  National priorities such as enterprise, financial education, citizenship, sustainable development and the global dimension all form part of the Civics programme.

Civics comprises of eight spines: Relationships, Health, Religious and Moral Education, Outdoors, Society, Careers, Enterprise and Miscellaneous.  In most years, pupils will experience elements from each of the eight spines.  We view this as a central part of a Morrisonian education as it will offer diverse opportunities and experiences such as climbing, sex education, political education, involvement with charities, developing study skills , team building, considering higher education and future careers, learning about nutrition, biodiversity, personal finance, world religions and human rights.

One hour per week is given to Civics and this takes place at the same time for the whole school providing maximum flexibility for a variety of activities.  Pupils are grouped in various ways across the year and will be taught by a number of different teachers, primary and secondary, as every teacher is involved in the delivery of the Civics programme.  We are also fortunate to have the school nurse heavily involved in the lessons relating to health and relationships.  Outside speakers supplement staff expertise, particularly in the form of lectures to senior pupils.  A variety of teaching methods are employed through the Civics programme such as working in pairs, group and whole class discussion, individual research, note taking from videos, debate, practical activities, role playing, presentations and lectures.

You can download a copy of the Civics summary for Secondary.