RSE

RSE (Relationships and Sex Education) in a Catholic primary school is a sensitive and important area of learning, approached within the context of the Catholic faith. It’s guided by the teachings of the Church and aims to promote the dignity of every person, the importance of family, and the development of respectful and loving relationships.

 

Catholic RSE is built around these key values:

Dignity of the human person: Every child is made in the image of God.

Love and relationships: Understanding love as self-giving and rooted in family and community.

Moral responsibility: Teaching right and wrong, informed by Church teaching.

Vocation and purpose: Helping children understand they are called to love and serve others.

 

RSE in our Catholic school follows a dedicated programme: “Life to the Full” by Ten:Ten Resources

 

This programme is structured around three key themes:

Created and Loved by God – Body, mind, and soul; understanding self-worth and uniqueness.

  • Focuses on self-worth, emotional well-being, and understanding one’s body.
  • Includes topics like personal health, emotional well-being, and life cycles.​

Created to Love Others – Family, friendships, community, forgiveness, and boundaries.

  • Explores relationships with others, emphasizing respect and empathy.
  • Covers areas such as personal relationships, keeping safe, and understanding family structures.

Created to Live in Community – Role in the wider community and the Church.

  • Addresses the individual’s role within the wider community.
  • Topics include living in the wider world, understanding the Common Good, and the importance of community.​

 

How It’s Delivered

Age-appropriate, gentle introduction to bodily changes and puberty (especially in Years 5 and 6).

Taught with sensitivity, using proper terminology but always respectful and rooted in faith.

Parents are seen as primary educators, so schools often hold parent meetings before the RSE content is taught.

Emphasis on positive relationships, kindness, empathy, and respect.

 

Age-Appropriate Units

The programme is tailored to different educational stages:​

Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS)

Introduces concepts of self-awareness, basic emotions, and understanding of family.​

Key Stage 1 (Years 1–2)

Develops understanding of personal relationships, safety, and emotional well-being.​

Lower Key Stage 2 (Years 3–4)

Expands on topics like personal health, relationships, and community involvement.​

Upper Key Stage 2 (Years 5–6)

Introduces more detailed discussions on puberty, reproduction, and the role in the wider community.

 

Faith Integration

Scripture, prayer, and the teachings of Jesus are integrated throughout.

Teachings on love and family reflect Catholic understanding of marriage, chastity, and the sanctity of life.

RSE is not just biology or science—it’s about forming the whole child: spiritually, emotionally, morally, and physically.

 

Implementation and Impact

  • Allocate dedicated time for RSE lessons, weekly.
  • Utilise a variety of teaching tools, including videos, activities, and discussions.
  • Assess student understanding through activities and observations.​
  • Record student work on Seesaw online learning platform

The impact is measured by students’ ability to articulate their thoughts and feelings, demonstrate respectful relationships, and understand their role within the community.