Relationship, Sex and Health Education (including Personal, Social, Health and Economic education)

At Mary Exton Primary School, we believe that RSHE (including PSHE) is essential in helping children develop the knowledge, skills and values they need to flourish as individuals and as responsible members of society. Our curriculum supports pupils’ emotional wellbeing, personal development and understanding of themselves and others, enabling them to build confidence, resilience and self-awareness. Through age-appropriate learning, children develop the ability to form healthy, respectful relationships, make safe choices, understand diversity and prepare for the opportunities and responsibilities of life in modern Britain.

Our RSHE curriculum is delivered through the Jigsaw programme, which provides a carefully sequenced and progressive approach from Reception to Year 6. The curriculum is aligned with the statutory Department for Education RSHE guidance and revisits key themes as children mature, allowing them to deepen their understanding over time. Pupils explore six key areas of learning: Being Me in My World, Celebrating Difference, Dreams and Goals, Healthy Me, Relationships and Changing Me. Through these units, children develop emotional literacy, resilience, empathy and respect while learning about personal identity, belonging, healthy lifestyles, relationships, boundaries, consent in age-appropriate contexts, online safety, equality and inclusion.

RSHE is taught through weekly lessons, supported by assemblies, themed weeks and additional learning opportunities across the school. Lessons use a range of engaging activities, including discussion, reflection, role play, collaborative tasks and practical scenarios, allowing pupils to explore ideas safely and develop confidence in expressing their thoughts and feelings. Teachers create inclusive learning environments where all children feel valued and respected, while pastoral support such as ELSA, Theraplay, Social Stories and Circle of Friends provides targeted support for pupils who may benefit from additional emotional or social development opportunities. Ongoing assessment through discussion, pupil reflection and teacher observation ensures that learning is responsive to pupils’ needs and supports their continued personal growth.

The impact of our RSHE curriculum is seen in pupils who are confident, respectful and emotionally aware. Children develop the skills to manage their emotions, communicate effectively, build positive relationships and make responsible decisions. They understand the importance of kindness, empathy, inclusion and respect, know how to keep themselves safe both online and offline, and recognise when and how to seek support. By the time pupils leave Mary Exton, they are equipped with the knowledge, confidence and resilience to navigate challenges, contribute positively to their communities and continue their personal development as healthy, respectful and responsible young people.

RSHE Enrichment

At Mary Exton Primary School, enrichment opportunities are carefully woven through school life to support pupils’ personal development, wellbeing and understanding of the wider world. Weekly Zones of Regulation assemblies and follow-up activities help pupils develop emotional awareness and self-regulation skills, while our Friday Celebration Assemblies and Gold Book awards recognise achievement, effort and positive attitudes. Pupil voice is strengthened through our elected School Council, empowering children to contribute to decision-making and school improvement. We actively engage in national events such as Parliament Week and Children’s Mental Health Week, broadening pupils’ social, civic and emotional understanding. Safeguarding and wellbeing are further reinforced through the NSPCC Speak Out, Stay Safe programme and our commitment to mental health, which includes Wellbeing Walks and an Active Action Break Trail to promote movement and mindfulness throughout the school day. In addition, our weekly No Outsiders assemblies foster inclusion, respect and understanding of diversity, ensuring that all pupils feel valued, safe and supported.

Useful Links and Curriculum Documents

Below are key documents and resources that provide a clear overview of our RSHE curriculum:

These documents provide guidance on statutory requirements, programme content, and best practice in teaching RSHE, as well as progression of skills and knowledge across primary school. They demonstrate how our curriculum ensures all pupils develop the understanding, confidence, and resilience to make safe, informed choices and build positive relationships throughout their lives.

Whole School RSHE Curriculum Overview Whole School RSHE Skills Progression