Relationship, Sex and Health Education (RSHE)
The Department for Education has recently published updated guidance relating to Relationships, Sex and Health Education (RSHE). As a result, our school's RSHE Policy is currently under review to ensure that it continues to meet statutory requirements while reflecting our Catholic ethos and values.
The proposed policy will be considered by our Governing Board and shared with parents as part of the consultation process. We value the important role of parents as the primary educators of their children and welcome their views during this review. Following consultation and approval, the final policy will be published on the school website.
At St. Mary Magdalene Catholic Primary School, Relationship, Sex and Health Education (RSHE) is an integral part of our mission to educate the whole child. We believe that every person is uniquely created and loved by God, and our RSHE curriculum helps children to develop the knowledge, understanding, attitudes and values they need to live happy, healthy and fulfilling lives.
RSHE is delivered within the context of our Catholic faith and supports pupils in developing positive relationships, a strong sense of self-worth, emotional wellbeing, and an understanding of how to keep themselves safe. Through this learning, children are encouraged to recognise their dignity as children of God and to treat others with respect, compassion and kindness.
Please find below, guidance issued by the Department of Education on Relationships education, relationships and sex education (RSHE) and health education. The DfE guidance can be found here. Catholic schools are required to deliver RSHE in accordance with the teaching of the church. This approach is compatible with the guidance issued by the DfE.
We use Ten:Ten's Life to the Full Plus programme, a Catholic RSHE resource approved by the Catholic Education Service and designed specifically for Catholic primary schools. The programme fully meets the statutory requirements for Relationships Education and Health Education while remaining faithful to the teachings of the Catholic Church.
Life to the Full Plus is taught through a carefully planned, age-appropriate curriculum that revisits key themes as children grow and mature. Topics include:
- Building positive friendships and relationships
- Understanding emotions and mental wellbeing
- Personal safety and recognising trusted adults
- Respecting ourselves and others
- Online safety and responsible use of technology
- Understanding how our bodies grow and change
- Puberty and human development
- Family life and caring relationships
- Living as responsible members of our local and global community
Throughout the programme, pupils are encouraged to reflect on how they can live out Gospel values in their everyday lives. Learning is rooted in the belief that every person has inherent dignity and is called to love God, love others and contribute to the Common Good.
We recognise that parents and carers are the first educators of their children and value the partnership between home and school in supporting children's personal development. Further information about the programme, including curriculum overviews and parent resources, can be accessed using the links below.
Our RSHE Policy is under consultation for 2026-27.
Life to the Full Plus - Programme Overview
