“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, Sex and Health Education (RSHE). Such changes were due to come into effect from September 2020 but have been delayed until Spring 2021, and all schools will be required to comply with the updated requirements. What this means is that we are reviewing our RSHE/PSHCE intent, content and implementation so we can be sure our provision is appropriate for our students based on their:
- Age
- Physical and emotional maturity
- Religious and cultural backgrounds
- Special educational needs and/or disabilities
You will be aware that, as a part of your child’s educational experience at HTCS, we aim to promote character education, personal well-being and personal development through a comprehensive programme of Personal, Social, Health, Careers and Economic (PSHCE) education that gives our students the knowledge, understanding, attitudes and attributes to live healthy, safe, productive and fulfilled lives, both now and in the future.
What does the new guidance mean?
The new RSHE 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?
RSHE is delivered during these days as part of the PSHCE curriculum. This guidance will form part of our school’s PSHCE education programme which is taught throughout the school KS3 lessons (one per-fortnight), drop-down days, tutor time activities and special 1-2 hour assembly-style sessions. This is monitored and reviewed regularly by the staff and Governing Body.
All teaching in PSHCE 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 students to ask questions to further their understanding and to find out more about what affects them personally.
What if I have questions?
To introduce parents to this concept and to ensure everyone is informed, we would like to review the draft policy and the statutory content of the relationships, sex and health education programme. The draft policy also contains important information for parents who may wish to withdraw their children from sex education classes.
As a college community, we are committed to working with our parents and all feedback on the policy to support the consultation process would be fully appreciated. You can provide feedback on the policy by completing the survey at the bottom of this page or by emailing Mr John Leary: jleary@hightunstall.hartlepool.sch.uk.
Supporting Documents