Relationships and Sex Education (RSE) at St Hild’s

At St Hild’s, Relationships and Sex Education (RSE) is a key part of our PSHE curriculum, designed to equip students with the knowledge, skills, and confidence to develop healthy relationships, make informed decisions, and stay safe both online and offline. Our approach is age-appropriate, inclusive, and aligned with statutory guidance, ensuring students feel supported and prepared for the challenges of modern life.

What RSE looks like at St Hild’s?

RSE is delivered through dedicated PSHE lessons, assemblies, form-time activities, and external workshops. The curriculum is designed to be engaging and interactive, encouraging open and respectful discussions on topics relevant to young people today. We work with pastoral teams, external agencies, and trained staff to provide a safe and supportive learning environment.

How RSE is developed from Year 7 to Year 11

Our RSE curriculum is progressive, building upon key themes each year:

Year 7 – Friendships & Online Safety: Exploring healthy friendships, dealing with peer pressure, understanding online safety, and learning about the role of a bystander in challenging situations.

Year 8 – Grooming & Exploitation: Understanding the risks of grooming (both online and in person), gang exploitation, and the dangers of online interactions.

Year 9 – Sexuality & Safe Relationships: Discussing sexual identity, body positivity, and developing healthy, respectful relationships. This year also introduces contraception options and the support available for sexual health.

Year 10 – Coercive Control & Sexual Health: A deeper focus on coercive control, domestic abuse, and unhealthy relationships, alongside more detailed discussions on contraception and STIs.

Year 11 – Preparing for Adulthood: Recapping previous topics while exploring family dynamics, parenting, and teen pregnancy, helping students understand responsibilities and the realities of family life.

This roadmap ensures that pupils gradually build their understanding in a way that is age-appropriate and relevant to their stage of development.

How RSE is explored within key components.

• Careers: Educating students about workplace relationships, respect, and professional boundaries
• PSHE Curriculum: A structured programme covering relationships, consent, online safety, and sexual health
• Science: Biological aspects of reproduction, contraception, and STIs

English: Examining relationships, gender representation, and online safety in literature and media.

Religious Education: Exploring different cultural and ethical perspectives on relationships and family.

Co-Curricular/Enrichment (NEAT Experience):

Workshops, guest speakers, and external agency involvement to reinforce key messages

• • Universal Offer (Worship, Form Time, etc.): Regular sessions addressing topics such as consent, personal boundaries, and healthy relationships

How is RSE Adapted for Vulnerable Learners?

We recognise that some pupils may require additional support when discussing RSE topics. To ensure inclusivity, we provide:

• • Tailored content to meet the needs of diverse learners
  • Smaller group discussions for sensitive topics
  • Pastoral & SEN support to provide additional guidance where needed
  • Collaboration with external specialists in safeguarding, mental health, and sexual health services

Parent (Carer), Pupil, and Staff Voice

RSE at St Hilds is continuously developed through feedback from our community:

• • Parents/Carers: Information sessions and consultations to ensure transparency and engagement
  • Pupils: Pupil voice activities, discussions, and surveys to shape content and delivery
  • Staff: CPD to ensure RSE is taught in a confident, informed, and supportive way.