Relationships & Sex Education

Education on relationships and sex education includes both the moral and physical aspects of this topic and will be covered in Biology and Curriculum for Life which includes personal, social, health, emotional lessons. It is delivered in an age appropriate curriculum, in a suitable context and aligns with the general values and moral attitude of the academy.

It provides knowledge about the process of reproduction and the nature of sexuality and relationships.  It encourages the acquisition of attitudes which allow students to manage their relationships in a responsible and healthy manner.

ENSURING A SAFE ENVIRONMENT

To ensure Curriculum for Life (including relationships and sex education) is delivered in a safe environment, lessons take place in dedicated periods each week with tutor groups. Students study topics that can be sensitive in nature in the comfort of their form room, along with their closest peers and tutor, to provide them with the space to ask questions and debate challenging topics with confidence and sensitivity.

At the beginning of all Curriculum for Life themes, students are reminded of the importance of listening carefully to others’ views and taking care to maintain a safe environment free of judgement and prejudice. All views are welcome, and it is made clear to students that any unkindness will not be tolerated.

Furthermore, we provide students with the space to discuss particularly sensitive topics privately should they wish. Students are invited to speak to their form tutor and are encouraged to provide feedback if they would like more information, or have any concerns, following any of the Curriculum for Life sessions they undergo.

In line with the statutory guidance for schools, all students will now receive sessions in Relationships and Sex Education (RSE). As per the guidance (linked), parents have the right to request their child be withdrawn from some or all of sex education delivered as part of statutory RSE. Before granting any request, the school will discuss the request with parents and, where appropriate, with the child to ensure that their wishes are understood and to clarify the nature and purpose of the curriculum. In these discussions with parents, the school will outline the detrimental effects that withdrawal might have on the child. Once these conversations have taken place, the school will respect the parents’ request to withdraw the child, up to and until three terms before the child turns 16. After that point, if the child wishes to receive sex education rather than be withdrawn, the school will make arrangements to provide the child with sex education.

Parents will be informed by letter of any sex education classes that will go ahead, and should contact the school if they wish to withdraw.

Some aspects of sex education are taught as part of the science curriculum. Parents may not withdraw their child from these sessions. This content includes:

► The male and female reproductive systems

► The menstrual cycle

► Pregnancy

► Sexually Transmitted Diseases

► Contraception

Parents do not have the right to withdraw their child from any other parts of the RSHE curriculum.