RSHE

Introduction to Relationships, Sex and Health Education

RSHE is lifelong learning about physical, moral and emotional development. Our schema at Archway Learning Trust provides an understanding that positive, caring environments are essential for the development of a good self-image and that individuals are in charge of and responsible for their own bodies. We will provide knowledge about the processes of reproduction and the nature of sexuality and relationships. We will encourage the acquisition of skills and attitudes which allow students to manage their relationships in a responsible and healthy manner. The prime responsibility for bringing up children rests with parents and carers. Schools must recognise that parents/carers are key figures in helping their children cope with the emotional and physical aspects of growing up and in preparing them for the challenges and responsibilities which sexual maturity brings. The teaching offered by school should be seen as complementary and supportive to the role of parents. It is acknowledged that not all parents feel confident or comfortable talking to their children about this area therefore our work ensures that all pupils have a standard level of education about key aspects needed to keep safe, and make positive, informed and healthy choices. In an attempt to achieve this, the 1988 Education Reform Act (Section 1) states that all pupils should be offered the opportunity of receiving a comprehensive, well-planned programme of sex education during their school careers through a curriculum which:

‘Promotes the spiritual, moral, cultural, mental and physical development of pupils at school and of society and
Prepares such pupils for the opportunities, responsibilities and experiences of adult life’

The school recognises that relationships, sex and health education is a difficult issue which will place demands on students and teachers. However, the purpose of relationships, sex and health education should be to provide knowledge about relationships, the nature of sexuality and the processes of human reproduction. At the same time it should lead to the acquisition of understanding and attitudes which prepare students to view their relationships in a responsible and healthy manner. At Bluecoat Beechdale Academy, RSHE is regarded as lifelong learning about physical, moral and emotional development. It is about the understanding of the importance of family life, the role of marriage, stable and loving relationships, respect, love and care. It is also about the teaching of sex, sexuality, and sexual health. It is not about the promotion of sexual orientation or sexual activity (DfE, 2000).