Our PSHE curriculum incorporates the statutory EYFS Framework and the Relationship Education, Sex Education and Health Education (RSE) content introduced in 2020. Our Relationship Education programme provides the foundations to identify the characteristics of positive relationships, with particular reference to friendships, family relationships, and relationships with other peers and adults. Pupils also learn about the emotional, social and physical aspects of growing up and sexual health in an age-appropriate way. This goes beyond learning about relationships, to include puberty, how a baby is conceived and born, body ownership and safeguarding. We include the non-statutory elements of sex education at appropriate phases of their school life.
When planning and resourcing, teachers take account of religious backgrounds of the class to ensure topics are appropriately handled and they comply with the relevant sections of Equality Act 2010. The teaching reflects the law so the pupils know and understand what the law in this country allows. We also listen to the views of parents who give feedback to SLT and teachers. Our programme is adapted after listening to the views of our pupils through pupil interviews, online surveys, counselling support sessions and the work in their books to ensure it addresses their needs.
Due to the nature of PSHE and RSE, and the positive relationships formed with both the teaching team and the pupils, the opportunities for discussion will include some sensitive issues and supports our work keeping our pupils safe. Prior to sex education aspects of the programme, parents are invited into school to view the materials used. This gives them a chance to address concerns and pose any questions. Parents have the right to request their child to be withdrawn from sex education aspects of the curriculum, via a discussion with the head. If a pupil is excused from sex education, we will ensure that the child receives appropriate, purposeful education during the period of withdrawal. There is no right to withdraw from Relationships Education or Health Education.
