Relationship, Sex and Health Education
The Department for Education (DfE) announced changes to Relationship, Sex and Health Education (RSHE) Curriculum. These new regulations will make Relationship Education compulsory. Primary schools can choose to teach sex education and it will not be compulsory, with the exception of any teaching that is part of the Science National curriculum.
These changes came into effect from September 2026 and all schools have to comply with the updated requirements.
In order to help parents and carers, the DfE has produced the attached guide. In addition, and attached, is the DfE expectations for what our pupils will be expected to know by the end of Year 6.
All teaching has to be age appropriate. We also need to ensure that our RSHE provision is appropriate based upon our pupil’s physical and emotional maturity, religious and cultural background and takes into account special education needs and/or disabilities.
Further information:
‘Teachers are supported to plan stimulating and interesting lessons.’
‘The school provides a happy and welcoming environment with a ‘family feeling’ in the new, large school building.’
‘Staff and pupils show great respect for each other.’
‘Pupils’ behavior is extremely good, with a calm and purposeful atmosphere.’
‘Pupils regularly revisit past learning, and assessments are used effectively to plan next steps.’
‘The early years learning area is bright and inviting, with a focus on vocabulary development through song and rhyme.’
‘A new phonics scheme has been introduced, improving the teaching of reading.’
‘Pupils with SEND receive high-quality and effective support, allowing them to access the full curriculum.’
‘High expectations for all pupils are maintained by all adults at the school.’
‘The mathematics curriculum has improved significantly, leading to confident problem-solving abilities in pupils.’
‘Adult interactions in early years are well planned to support resilient and purposeful learning.’
‘The curriculum includes personal, social, and emotional development, with a focus on values such as democracy and respect.’
‘The school has specially resourced provisions for pupils with SEND, particularly those with autism spectrum disorder.’