PSHE, Relationships, Health and Sex Education (RHSE) Information 2026
At Chigwell Primary Academy, we are currently reviewing our PSHE curriculum in line with the DfE's updated statutory guidance for Relationships, Sex and Health Education (published 2025, for implementation from September 2026). This is a positive opportunity to review our curriculum content, whilst maintaining our age-appropriate focus on the core knowledge and essential skills that children need to navigate different aspects of their lives with confidence both in and beyond primary school.
As part of this review, we are also consulting on our Relationships, Health and Sex Education policy and remind you of the rationale behind the teaching of Relationships, Health and Sex Education within our PSHE curriculum.
Our Relationships, Health and Sex Education Curriculum is taught sensitively and inclusively, with respect for the backgrounds and beliefs of pupils and parents, while always with the aim of providing pupils with the knowledge they need to prepare them to play a full part in society as responsible citizens. We ensure that it helps keep children safe; helps prepare children for the world in which they are growing up, including its laws in relation to relationships, sex and health; and helps foster respect for others and for difference. The content is age and developmentally appropriate. At Chigwell Primary Academy we are using myHappymindsplus from September 2026 to extend and build on the current coverage of the myHappyminds programme. We have also provided the parent overview taken directly from the myHappyminds PHSE and RSE programme of study.
It is permissible to withdraw your child from the non-compulsory aspects of sex education (taught within year 6) of our PSHE curriculum and if you wish to do this there is a form available for you to complete.
We highly recommend that pupils are not withdrawn from non-compulsory sex education. As a school we use age-appropriate materials to teach pupils about how their bodies will change, relationships and sex. It is highly likely that pupils will encounter conversations with peers, both online and in person, about these important topics.
We are keen that all children have the opportunity to learn the facts from a teacher who can sensitively deliver the material and answer the many questions they may have and ensure they are not given misinformation.
After this point, if you would like to withdraw your child from the non-compulsory sex education elements of the curriculum, please contact the school office and they will provide you with the form to complete. We also request that all families that withdraw their children meet with the headteacher to discuss this.
If you wish to carry out further reading around RSE, the following document may be of use to you: