At Holywell, PSHE and RSHE are an important part of our curriculum. They help children grow into confident, healthy and responsible individuals who are prepared for life in modern Britain. Our curriculum supports children to make informed decisions, build positive relationships, and develop respect for themselves and others, reflecting our school values of kindness, responsibility and respect.
Through PSHE and RSHE, we aim for pupils to leave Holywell with the knowledge, skills and attitudes to stay safe, maintain their wellbeing and contribute positively to society. Our curriculum is inclusive and celebrates the diversity of our community, ensuring all children see themselves and others represented with respect and fairness.
Our PSHE and RSHE curriculum is taught weekly by class teachers, following a carefully sequenced programme built around three key themes:
Health and Wellbeing, Relationships, and Living in the Wider World.
Learning builds progressively each year, revisiting and deepening key concepts. Lessons are engaging and age-appropriate, using high-quality resources recommended by the PSHE Association. Some content is also taught through science, computing and assemblies to strengthen links across the wider curriculum.
Our provision includes:
Inclusive teaching: Lessons are adapted to meet the needs of all pupils, including those with SEND.
Safeguarding and wellbeing: Children are taught how to stay safe, manage emotions, and seek help when needed.
Equality and respect: Topics such as diversity, empathy and respectful relationships are woven throughout the curriculum.
Parental engagement: Parents are informed about lesson content and resources through our website and information sessions.
In line with statutory guidance (DfE, July 2025), all pupils receive Relationships and Health Education. Parents and carers cannot withdraw their child from these areas or from the science curriculum.
Parents can request withdrawal from the non-statutory sex education content taught in Year 6. Requests should be made in writing to the Head of School, using the form provided in our RSE Policy.
We know our PSHE and RSHE curriculum is making a difference when children:
* Show confidence, empathy and respect in their interactions with others
* Make safe and informed choices about their health, wellbeing and relationships
* Demonstrate understanding of equality, diversity and personal responsibility
* Talk positively about their learning and apply it in everyday life
We assess PSHE and RSHE through pupil voice, class floorbooks and teacher observations. These help us monitor understanding, celebrate success and identify next steps. Leaders regularly review provision through learning walks, book studies and feedback from pupils, staff and parents to ensure lessons remain meaningful, inclusive and impactful.
You can view our PSHE and RSHE Curriculum Overview and Progression Map on this page for more detail about what children learn in each year group.