Frequently Asked Questions about Relationships and Sex Education
Improving information and discussion around Relationships and Sex Education helps foster safe spaces for young people.
Since the mandatory implementation of Relationship and Sex Education (RSE) in 2020 educators may have faced increased inquiries from parents about the curriculum's content, timing, and rationale. Asking questions and having open conversations with parents is key to making RSE accessible and less controversial.
The last review of these curriculum areas occurred 20 years ago, and since then, young people have faced new, bigger challenges than we could have imagined. Young people are exposed to vast variety of information outlets, such as TV, the internet, and the exponential growth of social media, all of which has put pressure on their physical and mental health.
Navigating the terrain of RSE can pose challenges for many parents, caregivers, and individuals invested in young people's wellbeing. There are various reasons for this, such as religious or cultural beliefs and concerns about introducing young people to sexuality too early. However, we must recognise that these concerns come from a place of love and a desire to protect our young ones. That's why it's important to approach these conversations with sensitivity and work collaboratively to ensure that we prioritise young people's best interests.
We believe that teaching Relationships and Sex Education (RSE) is crucial because it equips young people with the knowledge to make informed decisions about their wellbeing, health, and relationships. RSE helps young people to apply their knowledge in real-life situations, enabling them to make sound decisions when faced with risks, challenges, and complex contexts. RSE recognises that everyone will fae difficult situations throughout their lives, and it can support young people in developing resilience, knowing how and when to ask for help, and where to access support. We value the partnership between home and school, which is necessary to complement and reinforce what young people learn at home about healthy, respectful relationships. Our focus is on family and friendships in all contexts, including online, as well as how to stay healthy.
We've put together some helpful information to answer common questions and concerns that parents and caregivers might have about RSE.
1. What does RSE stand for?
RSE stands for Relationship and Sex Education. It is an integral component of the educational curriculum that equips students with the knowledge, skills, and attitudes necessary for understanding and navigating relationships, sexuality, and personal wellbeing.
2. What is the RSE curriculum?
The RSE curriculum outlines the scope and sequence of Relationship and Sex Education topics within schools to provide students with essential knowledge and skills related to relationships, sexuality, and personal wellbeing. It encompasses a wide range of subjects tailored to students' developmental stages, including emotional literacy, body awareness, puberty, reproduction, sexual health, consent, gender identity, and relationships. The curriculum provides a framework for educators to plan and deliver comprehensive RSE programs that meet young people's diverse needs and developmental stage.
3. What are RSE Works?
RSE works refer to the methodologies, resources, and strategies employed in delivering Relationship and Sex Education to young people. These may include interactive workshops, multimedia presentations, group discussions, role-playing exercises, educational videos, guest speakers, and age-appropriate learning materials. RSE engages students actively in the learning process, promotes critical thinking, and empowers them to make informed decisions regarding their relationships and sexual health.
4. What Exactly Will My Child Be Taught in RSE?
Parents frequently seek clarity in the specific topics covered within the RSE curriculum. While the content may vary depending on the educational institution and the age group of the students, RSE typically encompasses a comprehensive array of subjects designed to equip young individuals with essential knowledge and skills for navigating relationships, sexuality, and personal wellbeing.
In the future, as educational frameworks evolve and societal norms shift, the RSE curriculum may undergo further refinement to incorporate emerging issues such as digital citizenship, consent in online interactions, and the impact of social media on relationships.
5. Is My Child Too Young for This Information?
A common concern among parents revolves around the perceived appropriateness of introducing certain aspects of RSE too early. Addressing this concern involves emphasising the importance of age-appropriate education and ensuring that the curriculum is tailored to meet each age group's cognitive and emotional needs.
In the future, ongoing research and advancements in pedagogy may contribute to developing more nuanced approaches to delivering RSE, considering the evolving understanding of young people's development and psychological readiness.
6. What is RSE in primary school?
RSE in primary school refers to Relationship and Sex Education delivered to young people at the primary level of education (5 to 11 year olds). In primary school, RSE focuses on age-appropriate topics such as understanding emotions, friendship, personal boundaries, body awareness, puberty education, and building positive relationships. The emphasis is on laying foundational knowledge and skills to promote healthy attitudes towards relationships and self-identity.
7. What if My Religious or Cultural Beliefs Conflict with the Curriculum?
Respecting diverse religious and cultural perspectives is essential in navigating potential conflicts between RSE teachings and familial beliefs. Educators can adopt an inclusive approach by acknowledging and accommodating differing viewpoints while upholding the educational objectives of the curriculum. Establishing channels for dialogue and collaboration allows for mutual understanding and identifying common ground.
In the future, there may be an increased emphasis on cultural competency training for educators and the development of supplementary materials that offer alternative perspectives sensitive to diverse religious and cultural backgrounds.
8. Will these subjects promote LGBT relationships?
No. We are not 'promoting' LGBT relationships through these subjects; we are educating and informing young people about equality and acquainting them with the society in which they are growing up. These subjects promote respect for others and differences and inform pupils about healthy relationships. The RSE curriculum should cater to the needs of all pupils, regardless of their sexual orientation or identity. This includes teaching different types of relationships in accordance with the law in an age-appropriate manner.
9. RSE for SEN/Special Needs Students
Relationship and Sex Education (RSE) for SEN (Special Educational Needs) young people is tailored to meet the unique learning needs and abilities of individuals with special needs or disabilities. It encompasses teaching approaches, resources, and content delivery adaptations to ensure accessibility and meaningful participation. RSE for SEN young people may involve simplified language, visual aids, sensory materials, individualised support, and differentiated learning activities to facilitate comprehension and promote empowerment in understanding and managing relationships and sexuality. Schools and educators work collaboratively with parents and specialised professionals to develop personalised RSE programs that address SEN young people's specific needs and preferences, fostering their holistic development and wellbeing.
10. How Can I Address Sensitive Topics with My Child?
Navigating sensitive topics within the realm of RSE can be daunting for parents, but it presents an opportunity to foster trust and facilitate meaningful conversations with their young person. Employing age-appropriate language, non-judgmental, active listening, and validation of emotions are essential strategies for broaching difficult subjects while ensuring that young people feel safe and supported.
Advances in educational resources and parental guidance materials may provide additional tools and strategies to assist parents in navigating challenging discussions with their young people, promoting a deeper understanding of RSE concepts and values.
11. How Can I Support My Child's Learning Outside of School?
Parents play a pivotal role in supplementing their young person's RSE education by fostering open communication, providing accurate information, and cultivating a supportive environment where questions and concerns are addressed without judgment. Encouraging discussions about values, boundaries, and healthy relationships at home can complement the lessons learned in the classroom.
Future initiatives may involve integrating parental involvement programmes within RSE curricula, offering resources and guidance to empower parents in facilitating ongoing dialogue and reinforcing key concepts.
If we want to implement RSE initiatives successfully, we must encourage open communication and collaboration between educators, parents, and young people. It's important to understand each group care about supporting young people to become happy, healthy and thriving adults! We should treat parental concerns with empathy and provide support to create a healthy environment promoting healthy relationships, informed decision-making, and personal wellbeing among young individuals.
Ongoing dialogue, open minds and enthusiastic collaboration remain essential to ensuring the effectiveness of RSE, helping our young people to thrive.
Inclusive RSE works and we need more of it!