Relationships & Sex Education (RSE)

Rowan Park

Rowan High

Relationships and Sex Education (RSE) at Rowan High

At Rowan High, Relationships and Sex Education (RSE) forms an essential part of our PSHE curriculum. RSE supports our pupils’ personal development and wellbeing and is designed to help them build the understanding and skills they need to form positive relationships in the wider world.

A Carefully Planned, Age‑Appropriate Approach

All RSE taught at Rowan High is age‑appropriate, carefully sequenced and tailored to meet the needs of our pupils. Lessons are adapted to pupils’ developmental stages, communication needs and levels of understanding. Teaching takes place in a safe, supportive and respectful environment where pupils are encouraged to ask questions and learn at a pace that is right for them.

Content is delivered using clear language, visual resources and practical learning opportunities where appropriate, ensuring learning is accessible and meaningful for all pupils.

Supporting Independence and Life Beyond School

Our RSE curriculum plays an important role in preparing pupils for adulthood and life beyond Rowan High. Through RSE, pupils develop both knowledge and skills that help them to:

Understand what healthy, respectful relationships look like
Recognise boundaries and appropriate behaviour
Identify unsafe or inappropriate situations and know how to seek help
Develop communication, social and emotional skills
Build confidence, self‑esteem and self‑advocacy

We aim to support pupils ability to navigate social situations, relationships and personal choices with increasing independence, helping them to engage positively in their communities and the wider world.

RSE Within the PSHE Curriculum

PSHE is taught once a week at Rowan High and is a key component of our commitment to pupils’ personal development.

Each academic year, two half‑terms are dedicated specifically to the Relationships strand of the PSHE curriculum. This structured approach allows themes to be revisited and reinforced over time, helping pupils to develop secure understanding and confidence.

RSE is fully integrated within PSHE and links naturally to other areas of learning, promoting consistency and real‑life application.

National Guidance and Best Practice

Rowan High is a member of the PSHE Association, and our RSE curriculum is informed by their recommended programmes of study. We also ensure that all content complies with current government statutory guidance for Relationships and Sex Education.

This ensures that RSE at Rowan High is:

Accurate, relevant and up to date
Delivered in line with national expectations
Reflective of best practice in PSHE education

Safeguarding and Pupil Wellbeing

Safeguarding underpins all RSE teaching. Pupils are taught how to keep themselves safe, including understanding consent, trusted adults, online safety and where to go for support if they feel worried or unsafe. Any concerns arising from RSE lessons are handled sensitively and in line with the school’s safeguarding procedures.

Working in Partnership With Families

We value strong partnerships with parents and carers and recognise their vital role in supporting pupils’ learning and personal development. RSE is delivered with respect for family values and beliefs, while ensuring pupils receive the information they need to stay safe, healthy and informed.

At Rowan High, Relationships and Sex Education is about empowering pupils with the understanding, confidence and skills they need to build positive relationships, make informed choices and prepare for a fulfilling future.