RSHE 

We recognise that parents and carers are their children’s first and most important educators, and we value working in partnership with families as children grow and develop. We regularly consult with parents about our curriculum so that families understand what is being taught and have opportunities to share their views.

At St Philip’s, we believe that high-quality, age-appropriate Relationships and Sex Education is an important part of supporting children’s wellbeing, safety and understanding of themselves and others. RSE is not simply about sex. It helps children to understand healthy and respectful relationships, personal boundaries and consent, how their bodies grow and change, how to keep themselves safe, and how to recognise when something does not feel right and seek help. This reflects the DfE’s emphasis on equipping children with knowledge and skills for their wellbeing, health and relationships and helping them recognise when things are not right. 

Our curriculum is carefully sequenced, age and stage appropriate, and delivered sensitively by experienced staff who know our children well. We aim to create a safe environment in which children can ask questions, develop confidence and learn how to make safe, respectful and informed choices.

In primary school, Relationships Education is compulsory. Parents do not have a right to withdraw their child from this statutory element. Where primary schools provide sex education beyond the statutory curriculum, parents have the right to request that their child is withdrawn from that element.

We would always encourage any parent who has questions or concerns about RSE, including withdrawal, to speak with us. Our aim is to work openly and respectfully with families so that parents understand what their children are learning, why they are learning it and how it supports their safety, wellbeing and development.