At Hillside Avenue the RSHE curriculum aims to support children to develop the life skills they need to be prepared for their future both personally and as part of a community. It guides children to develop a better understanding of themselves and their relationships with others. It helps them gain the knowledge and skills necessary to keep themselves healthy and safe. The children are also encouraged to explore difference and contrasting points of view in a respectful way. Our RSHE curriculum also provides children with the opportunity to develop resilience and the ability to problem especially at times of difficulty or change.

Relationships, Sex and Health Education (RSHE)

At Hillside Avenue Primary and Nursery School, we want all children to grow up healthy, happy, and safe, equipped with the knowledge to make informed decisions about their wellbeing and relationships. We are now launching a proactive consultation on our updated RSHE policy and curriculum, which follows the July 2025 DfE statutory guidance.

Summary of RSHE Changes (2025 Guidance)

The 2025 guidance ensures the curriculum is relevant for the 21st century. Key topics include:

• Relationships Education: Building blocks for safe relationships, focusing on families, caring friendships and respectful boundaries.

• Health Education: Mental wellbeing, healthy eating, the risks of vaping, and the importance of sleep.

• Protective Knowledge: Teaching the correct names for body parts, so children have the vocabulary to stay safe and report concerns.

Primary Sex Education at Hillside Avenue Primary and Nursery School

While Sex Education is not compulsory in primary schools, the DfE recommends that schools provide a programme tailored to the age and maturity of pupils. Following this recommendation, our school has chosen to teach Sex Education, specifically focused on conception and birth, typically delivered in Years 5 and 6.

This content is designed to complement the Science National Curriculum, which covers human development, puberty, and reproduction in some animals.

Below are documents for your reference;