With the draft RSE guidance out for consultation, and Government plans announced for a phased 2019-20 start date there is lots to do for schools to get ready for statutory RSE. We are here to guide you through.
The Sex Education Forum has been shaping policy and practice on RSE for over 30 years. We have gathered together evidence from international research, young people, parents and schools, and used this to design practical tools that can support schools to get on with providing high quality, evidence based RSE now. So here are a list of things we recommend that you focus on this September.
1. Know your facts
Legislation to do with sex education is notoriously complicated. Fortunately the new requirements apply to all schools – that includes academies, maintained schools, special schools, free schools, independent schools. But there are different requirements for primary and secondary schools. Browse our FAQs on RSE, and our 10 question quiz about statutory RSE could be a great way of helping governor’s get up to speed at the next governor’s board meeting. And remember, until the new guidance is finalised the 2000 guidance still applies.
2. Discuss and display our 12 principles poster
These principles are all based on evidence and are supported by NPSCC, Barnardo’s, The Children’s Society, NCB and six education unions. Download and print a copy of the poster and discuss at a SLT meeting which of the principles your school is doing well on and where any gaps are. Displaying the poster in the reception, staff room or classrooms is a great way to show that you are committed to providing excellent RSE, even if it’s still a work in progress. Our monthly bulletins are packed with practical tips about how to put each of the principles into practice. Join now to receive these and to access all members-only resources.
3. Plan training now
The quality of RSE lessons is going to rest on the quality of teaching more than anything else. We know there are hundreds of teachers who would like to become specialists in personal, social, health and economic (PSHE) education, of which RSE is a part. Now is the time to find out who would like to develop their career in this area and to review their CPD needs. We have put together an exciting programme of training courses and events for 2018-19 which cater for educators who are new to RSE and those with more experience wanting to gain more depth. Our training will introduce you to a fantastic range of resources from across our partners and will support you to build a RSE programme that suits your school.
4. Join us for 'Countdown to statutory RSE'
Our new national conference 'Countdown to statutory RSE' takes place in London on Friday 30th November 2018 and will provide inspiration and practical CPD workshops tailored for teachers new to RSE and more experienced educators. We hope to see you there! Book now.
5. Sign up for our free 'Countdown' newsletters
Sign up here and we'll keep you posted with the news, resources and practical tips you need to make sure your school is equipped to meet the statutory guidance and give children and young people quality RSE that supports them growing up and prepares them for adult life.
By taking at least one of these actions now you will have quit waiting and taken a step towards providing your pupils with the high quality RSE that they deserve and need.
Lucy Emmerson
Director
9 August 2018
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