Stephenson Way Academy and Nursery School

The Department for Education (DfE) has published statutory guidance about how Relationships Education, Relationships and Sex Education (RSE) and Health Education should be implemented in all schools across England by 2020 (DfE, 2019a).

The role of parents and carers in the development of their children’s understanding about relationships is vital. Parents and carers are the first teachers of their children. They have the most significant influence in enabling their children to grow and mature and to form healthy relationships. At SWANS, we work closely with parents and carers when planning and delivering these subjects. We ensure that you know what will be taught and when, and clearly communicate the fact that parents and carers have the right to request that their child be withdrawn from some or all of sex education delivered as part of statutory RSE. 

We ensure that parents and carers are given every opportunity to understand the purpose and content of Relationships Education and RSE. Good communication and opportunities for parents and carers to understand and ask questions about the school’s approach help to increase confidence in the curriculum. We consult with parents and carers for example by providing information on the school website and through school/ class newsletters  to discuss what will be taught. In doing this, we can address any concerns and help support parents and carers in managing conversations with their children on these issues. This can be an important opportunity to address how these subjects contribute to wider support in terms of pupil wellbeing and keeping children safe.