Relationships and Sex Education (RSE) is taught predominantly as part of the PSHE curriculum at Snowfields Academy.
The statutory RSE topics taught meet Government Guidance, as set out in this document, which was published in 2019: Relationships Education, Relationships and Sex Education (RSE) and Health Education
An element of this curriculum involves Intimate and Sexual Relationships (ISR). Students learn about these areas to develop the knowledge and skills needed to make informed, responsible decisions about their sexual and reproductive health and relationships. Understanding topics like consent, healthy relationships, contraception, STIs, and the impact of lifestyle choices helps them navigate complex social situations, protect their wellbeing, and respect the rights and boundaries of others.
RSE curriculum at Snowfields Academy
Relationships and Sex Education (including ISR) is taught predominantly as part of the PSHE curriculum at Snowfields Academy. Students have 1 hour of PSHE lessons each week in Years 7-11 and cover PSHE topics within Weekly Focus lessons in Pathfinder (Years 12 and 13).
As with all lessons at Snowfields Academy, teachers adapt the curriculum and teaching resources to meet the needs of students taking the lessons. However, a sample of lesson slides and topic overviews have been placed below for families reference.
Example lesson slides
- Year 7 Module 5– Healthy relationships
- Year 9 Module 5 – Effect of pornography on young people
- Year 11 Module 5 – LGBT+
Example Knowledge Organiser
- Year 7 Module 5 – Relationship module
- Year 9 Module 5 – Relationship module
- Year 11 Module 5 – Relationship module
Staff Training
In order to support staff to raise their confidence and knowledge of how to manage difficult conversations with children relating to relationships and sex education, all staff have had training delivered by RAISE (Raising Awareness in Sex Education) as part of the Snowfields Academy CPD offer for staff.
Parental Right to Withdraw from ISR lessons
In line with government guidance linked about, and the Snowfields Academy RSE policy, parents may choose to withdraw their children from ISR lessons. As outlined in the policy, parents/carers may request to withdraw their child, up to and until three terms before the child turns 16.
Requests for withdrawal should be put in writing and addressed to the Principal. A copy of withdrawal requests will be placed in the pupil’s educational record. The Principal, or a member of SLT, may discuss the request with parents.
Snowfields Academy are welcome to discussing any parental concerns regarding this area of the curriculum, if you would like to explore this option, please contact the Academy reception or use the info@snowfieldsacademy.org.uk email address.
Where students have been withdrawn from ISR lessons, Snowfields Academy will provide alternative appropriate work.
Government Guidance for Parents / Carers
To support parents and carers to understand the government guidance regarding the RSE curriculum, the government has released this guidance: