Relationships, Sex & Health Education (RSHE) Curriculum

Relationships, Sex and Health Education (RSHE)

What is RSHE?

RSHE is lifelong learning about physical, social and emotional development. It supports children to understand relationships, respect, diversity, healthy lifestyles, safety, the body and how it changes, and reproduction in an age-appropriate way. At Southwark, we build strong foundations that prepare pupils for secondary education and beyond. Our key aim is to safeguard pupils by equipping them with the knowledge and skills to stay safe, healthy and confident.

Why RSHE is important at Southwark

Our RSHE curriculum reflects our school values and supports our vision to create a safe, positive and inclusive environment. We aim to help children develop into confident, healthy and responsible individuals who can build positive relationships and contribute to society.

New statutory guidance and consultation

Our RSHE policy has been updated in line with current statutory guidance. We carried out a full consultation process involving parents, staff, pupils and governors to ensure our curriculum reflects the needs and views of our community.

Key learning areas

Through RSHE, pupils will:

• Build positive and respectful relationships
• Understand how to keep themselves safe (offline and online)
• Develop emotional awareness and resilience
• Learn about physical changes, including puberty
• Understand healthy lifestyles and wellbeing
• Develop skills to seek help and make informed choices

Equality, Inclusion and Support

We are committed to inclusion and follow the Equality Act 2010. Our curriculum reflects and celebrates diversity, ensuring all pupils feel respected and represented. RSHE is taught in a sensitive, inclusive and age-appropriate way, recognising different family structures, cultures and beliefs.
We work closely with parents and carers and value their role as key partners. Information about RSHE content is shared in advance to support ongoing conversations at home.

Further information

Our full RSHE policy is available on the school website and as an attachment.
If you have any questions, please contact the school.

Please click the attachment below to view our existing RSHE policy and the updated policy which will be effective from September 2026.