Relationships, Sex and Health Education (RSHE)

At our school, Relationships, Sex and Health Education (RSHE) helps children develop the knowledge, understanding and skills they need to stay safe, healthy and build positive relationships as they grow.

What does the law say?

RSHE is guided by statutory requirements set out by the UK government in the Department for Education guidance Relationships Education, Relationships and Sex Education (RSE) and Health Education.

• Since September 2020, Relationships Education and Health Education are compulsory in all primary schools in England
• Schools must follow this statutory guidance and are required to have regard to it when planning their curriculum
• Updated guidance (published in 2025) will continue to shape provision from September 2026

It is important to understand that:

• Relationships Education (primary) – statutory (must be taught)
• Health Education (primary) – statutory (must be taught)
• Sex Education (primary) – not compulsory, but many schools choose to teach it in an age-appropriate way

Parents cannot withdraw their child from Relationships or Health Education, but can request withdrawal from any non-statutory sex education that the school chooses to teach

What do children learn?

The curriculum is carefully planned to be age-appropriate, inclusive and sensitive, and is usually taught through Personal, Social, Health and Economic (PSHE) education.

By the end of primary school, children will learn about:

1. Relationships Education (statutory)

• Families and people who care for them
• Caring friendships and respect for others
• Online relationships and staying safe
• Recognising and reporting concerns

2. Health Education (statutory)

• Physical health and mental wellbeing
• Healthy lifestyles (including diet, exercise and sleep)
• Personal hygiene and basic first aid
• Understanding emotions and how to manage them

3. Sex Education (if taught)

• Basic understanding of human reproduction
• Changes during puberty (also covered in science)

How is RSHE taught?

• Delivered in a safe, supportive and respectful environment
• Age-appropriate and carefully sequenced across year groups
• Builds on children’s prior knowledge and experiences
• Taught through a range of approaches including discussion, stories, videos and practical activities
• Linked to our school values and ethos

Schools are given flexibility to design their curriculum so it reflects the needs of their pupils and community, while still meeting statutory expectations

Working with parents

We recognise that parents and carers play a vital role in children’s development. Schools are expected to:

• Have a clear RSHE policy
• Share curriculum content with parents
• Consult with parents when developing or reviewing provision

We are committed to working in partnership with families to ensure children receive consistent and supportive messages at home and at school.

How RSHE is Taught at Wolvey CofE Primary School

At Wolvey CofE Primary School, Relationships, Sex and Health Education (RSHE) is taught in a thoughtful, age-appropriate and sensitive way, in line with statutory guidance.

RSHE is primarily delivered by the class teacher within the classroom, ensuring that learning takes place in a familiar, safe and supportive environment where children feel comfortable to ask questions and share their thoughts.

Our approach

• Relationships and Health Education are taught throughout the school year as part of our wider curriculum.
• Lessons are carefully planned to be age-appropriate, building children’s understanding over time.
• Teaching is always delivered in a sensitive and inclusive manner, reflecting our school values and supporting all pupils.

Sex Education at Wolvey

While Sex Education is not statutory in primary schools, we believe it is important to prepare children for the changes they will experience as they grow.

• In Year 4, children take part in a unit during the Spring term which introduces key aspects of sex education in an age-appropriate way.
• In Year 6, children complete a further sex education unit, helping them prepare for the transition to secondary school and the changes of puberty.

Working with parents

We value working in partnership with parents and carers:

• Parents will be given the opportunity to view learning materials in advance of the Year 4 and Year 6 sex education units.
• Information about RSHE learning is regularly shared through the school newsletter.
• Parents are always welcome to contact their child’s class teacher to discuss the curriculum or ask any questions.

This approach ensures that all children at Wolvey receive consistent, supportive and high-quality RSHE, helping them to develop the knowledge and confidence they need for the future.