Our Curriculum

Relationships and Sex Education.

As part of our curriculum, we teach the children about relationships - some of this is included within our RSE lessons, some in our lessons. Relationships are also discussed when we look at our Sex Education unit. Different elements of this unit are looked at in science (life cycles).

It is important that when we teach the children about potentially sensitive areas, it is done so in a sensitive and caring way being mindful that our families are from a range of different backgrounds and cultures. 

Frequently asked questions about Relationships and Sex Education lessons at Fernwood Primary school.

1. Why is RSE taught? It is a key part of safeguarding and educating children on what is appropriate can help children navigate their way through life. It is always taught with great consideration and at the appropriate age and stage.
2. When is RSE taught? It is taught in the Summer term after May half term. There is a parent’s meeting 2 weeks before and a dojo message will go out as well.
3. When and how can we find out about what is being specifically taught in RSE lessons? We run an online meeting for parents, in May, to give an overview of the lessons taught starting in Reception and continuing up to Year 6. Resources/images are shown that are used in the actual lessons. As well as this, you can ask you child’s teacher for a more in depth look at the lessons.
4. How are the children taught about their private parts? This starts in Reception the children are taught the PANTS lesson from the NSPCC charity. Talk PANTS: Conversation to help keep children safe | NSPCC Scientific terms are always used and appropriately referred to during lessons, to ensure that the children are confident with the technical vocabulary.
5. When are the correct names for genitals taught? In Year 1

6. When are lessons on conception taught? It is one lesson and it is taught in Year 6
7. Do you cover transgender/same sex relationships? We lead assemblies on the Protected Characteristics and use published stories to cover transgender topics and same sex families. We emphasise that all families are equal and accepted. Here are some of the books we use.

8. How are SEND children supported? Every SEND child’s needs are taken into consideration when planning our RSE lessons. We will teach specific lessons in smaller groups with modified resources and/or language. We work closely with our SENCO Team to ensure that all our children are catered for
9. Is the Menopause taught? Yes, it is briefly mentioned in the Year 5 Science lesson about growing up and the changes that humans go through from being a baby to old age. It is also discussed in the Year 5 period talk for the girls.
10. I still want to know more, who can I talk to in school? Any of the senior leadership team or Mrs Robinson-Wood, our Personal Development Lead.