Relationships & Sex Education (RSE)
“Effective RSE does not encourage early sexual experimentation. It should teach young people to understand human sexuality and to respect themselves and others. It enables young people to mature, build their confidence and self-esteem and understand reasons for delaying sexual activity. Effective RSE also supports people throughout life to develop safe, fulfilling and healthy sexual relationships at the appropriate time.”
DfE Statutory Guidance for Relationships and Sex Education (RSE)
The Department for Education has announced changes to relationships and sex education(RSE).
These changes will come into effect from September 2020 and all schools will be required to comply with the updated requirements. This means that we are in the process of reviewing our RSE curriculum and policy so we can be sure our RSE provision is appropriate for our pupils based on their:
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Age
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Physical and emotional maturity
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Religious and cultural backgrounds
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Special educational needs and/or disabilities
You will be aware that, as a part of your child’s educational experience at Stoke Fleming School, we aim to promote personal wellbeing and development through a comprehensive taught programme of Personal, Social, Health and Economic (PSHE) education that gives our children the knowledge, understanding, attitudes and practical skills to live healthy, safe, productive and fulfilled lives, both now and in the future.
What does the new guidance mean?
The new RSE guidance focuses on healthy relationships and keeping children safe in the modern world. It also covers a wide range of topics relating to physical and mental health, wellbeing, safeguarding and healthy relationships. Learning about the emotional, social and physical aspects of growing up, will give young people the information, skills and positive values to have safe, fulfilling relationships and will help them take responsibility for their own well-being.
How will this be delivered?
RSE is delivered as part of the PSHE curriculum. This guidance will form part of our school’s PSHE education programme which is taught throughout the school in weekly PSHE lessons. These are monitored and reviewed regularly by the staff and Governing Body.
All teaching in PSHE will take place in a safe learning environment and be underpinned by our school ethos and values. A variety of opportunities will be provided for pupils to ask questions to further their understanding and to find out more about what affects them personally.