Relationships and Sex Education
In Relationships and Sex Education, carefully planned sequences of learning allow children a wealth of opportunities to develop knowledge and skills and to become thoughtful, articulate, and respectful as we nurture aspiring well-rounded global citizens. Children are taught key terminology as well as being offered a safe environment to take part in age-appropriate discussions around the content of this subject, asking any questions and showing respect to others. This knowledge is evident through various topics and subjects taught throughout the curriculum as well as discretely taught lessons within the PSHE curriculum. Children are offered opportunities to reflect upon their own experiences and are taught how to celebrate individuality throughout our school, our community, and our world. Our children are taught to be fully inclusive and accepting of others regardless of differences but in order to do so, they are taught what these differences might look like and the appropriate language we might use. This takes place in classrooms, assemblies and through whole-school events including PRIDE events which allows the promotion of the British Values of democracy, rule of law individual liberty and mutual respect and tolerance of those with different faiths and beliefs.
Opportunities to develop resilience are capitalised upon as children are encouraged to take risks and learn from mistakes. This is undertaken through participation in speaking and listening activities and many discussions involving children sharing their own thoughts and opinions. Support is tailored for the differing needs of our children including SEND and GAT using additional adults, learning materials and peer-support where appropriate.
To support the emotional well-being of our children, praise and recognition are constantly, recognising achievements and reinforce resilience. Continuous professional development is offered to staff to ensure they are up skilled and feel equipped to plan, teach, support and assess the subject with confidence. Staff, Governors, Parents and Carers were invited to take part in the consultation process to compile the Relationships and Sex Education policy and curriculum ensuring this subject best meets the needs of all learners and our families. To promote a love of reading within Relationships and Sex Education, engaging and child-friendly texts and resources are used which children can relate to, these are linked to the Educate and Celebrate programme that we have earned the Silver Award in. This also allows children a platform to ask questions if they don’t feel comfortable referring to their own experiences, taking account of the emotional well-being of our children. Staff are also offered the support of colleagues and the school nurse for continued professional development in this subject area, reflecting the evolving curriculum.
