The DfE have published guidance for Relationships and Sex Education.  Schools are required to deliver the new guidance from September 2020.  We have utilised diocesan guidance in reviewing our policy and its delivery. In January 2021, we consulted parents and governors regarding the new policy during a consultation period. 

RSHE is about the emotional, social and physical aspects of growing up, healthy relationships, sex, human sexuality and sexual health. It is also about the spiritual and moral aspects of relationships within a context of a Christian vision for the purpose of life. Through RSHE in church schools, pupils will have the chance to learn about how to ensure that they treat themselves and others, at all times and in all contexts, with dignity and respect. Relationships Education is learning about how to:

• be appreciative of existing relationships
• to form new healthy relationships
• to enjoy strong positive, non-exploitative, caring relationships online and in person.

We want all children to grow up healthy, happy, safe, and able to manage the challenges and opportunities of modern Britain. That is why, from September 2020, all primary age children will be taught Relationships and Health Education.
These subjects are designed to equip your child with knowledge to make informed decisions about their wellbeing, health and relationships as well as preparing them for a successful adult life.

Sex and Relationships Education is not considered as a separate subject but will be addressed in the following manner:

• Incorporated into the PSHE programme of work
• As part of the Science Curriculum incorporated within the subjects of growth and development
• Issues will be addressed as they occur naturally in the classroom and questions are answered in an appropriate manner with due regard to the children’s level of maturity
• The ethos of the school encourages self respect and caring and loving attitudes towards each other
• Annually Year 5 pupils are given a talk by a qualified school nurse on the subject of personal hygiene and puberty. Parents are consulted before such talks are given and may withdraw their child/children if they so desire.

When planning and delivering the Relationships, Health and Sex Education curriculum, as laid out by the government, respect is central to everything we do. We follow the principles and guides as laid out in the Church Of England document ‘Valuing all God’s Children’. We educate our children about the diverse world in which we live as well as how to behave and live in a healthy manner, safeguarding the wellbeing of ourselves and those we love.

The aims of relationships and sex education (RSE) at our school are to:

• Provide a framework in which sensitive discussions can take place, exploring issues and values
• Help pupils develop feelings of self-respect, confidence and empathy
• Create a positive culture around issues of relationships and sexuality
• Teach pupils the correct vocabulary to describe themselves and their bodies
• Prepare pupils for puberty, and give them an understanding of sexual development and the importance of health and hygiene
• Developing children emotionally, socially and culturally
• Learn about relationships, sexual health, sexuality, healthy lifestyles, diversity and personal identity