2026 RSE Consultation (for parents/carers)
A copy of the letter we are sending out to parents over February can be found here: RSE Letter Feb 2026
Given there are a number of changes and additions to the RSE guidance you will find it useful to review the information and Curriculum Maps below before completing the survey.
Relationships Education, Relationships and Sex Education (RSE) and Health Education
Summary of RSE Curriculum Changes (September 2026)
From September 2026, schools across the country will introduce updated Relationships and Sex Education (RSE) guidance. At the Children’s Hospital School, we have reviewed our curriculum to ensure it remains age-appropriate, clear, and supportive of children’s wellbeing and personal development.
Below is an easy-to-read overview of what is changing and what it means for your child.
Why is the RSE curriculum changing?
- National guidance has been updated to ensure pupils learn the knowledge and skills they need for life in a modern, digital world.
- The new curriculum strengthens teaching on healthy relationships, respect, safety and growing up.
- The changes aim to help children make informed decisions, stay safe and understand how to build positive relationships with others.
What will my child learn?
The updated curriculum covers three broad areas, with content tailored to each age group:
- Healthy Relationships
Children will learn about:
- Friendships, kindness, and empathy
- Family relationships and different family structures
- Respecting others, including differences
- Managing emotions and resolving conflict
- Understanding personal boundaries and consent (in age-appropriate ways)
- Keeping Safe
Children will explore:
- How to stay safe online and offline
- Recognising unsafe situations and knowing how to seek help
- Understanding privacy, including appropriate and inappropriate touch
- How to communicate concerns and who to talk to
- Growing and Changing
Teaching will include:
- Early learning on how bodies change as we grow
- Puberty (taught in a sensitive and age-appropriate way)
- Hygiene and self-care
- Understanding personal feelings during changes
What is new or updated?
The 2026 updates include:
- Clearer progression from year to year
- More detailed guidance on digital safety, including social media, online communication and recognising online risks
- Improved resources for teaching about respect, boundaries and consent
- Updated puberty content to ensure children are prepared before changes begin
- A stronger emphasis on mental wellbeing, self-esteem and managing emotions
How will lessons be taught?
- Lessons will continue to be sensitive, inclusive and age-appropriate.
- Materials will be adapted to suit the needs of pupils at different ages and stages.
- Children will be taught in a safe, respectful environment where questions are handled carefully.
- Curriculum Maps showing what each year group will learn are available.
How can parents get involved?
We want to work in partnership with you. Parents are invited to:
- Review our draft Curriculum Maps
- Share views through our RSE consultation survey
Your feedback will help us ensure the curriculum supports all families.
What remains the same?
- Parents will continue to be informed about what is being taught and when.
- Our commitment to teaching RSE in a safe, respectful and age-appropriate way remains unchanged.
- The curriculum continues to focus on helping children understand themselves, respect others and stay safe.
All changes for September 2026 introduction are highlighted yellow.
KS4
