RSHE Information for Parents
RSHE planning
This half term, we will be covering areas of the Department for Education's RSHE (Relationships, Sex and Health Education) curriculum in both science and PSHE.
In science, we are learning about how the body develops from being a baby to old age. This includes the physical changes of puberty, but also other changes that occur to the body as it grows up. It also includes sexual reproduction. Due to the fact that all of the changes associated with puberty can be overwhelming, each area of physical changes will be taught through mini-lessons. Note: Not all science lessons for the next half term are on the plan (only those relating to puberty and sexual reproduction).
In PSHE, we are learning about 'growing up and changing'. This includes the children's emotional needs when going through changes (whether puberty or other forms of change), mental wellbeing and staying safe. Some lessons will also consolidate their understanding of puberty.
To support the children with the changes of puberty, there are books that the children can borrow for an evening/weekend. A list of books available can be found at the bottom of the page.
A plan of the lessons taught can be found below for each year group.
If you have any questions or clarifications, please let the school know by emailing the school office or through messaging me on Class Dojo.
Information about the curriculum, RSHE policy and withdrawing
Children can only be withdrawn from lessons with non-statutory objectives being taught. The only lesson that children can be withdrawn from is the year 6 PSHE lesson taught on the 29th June 2023. To withdraw your child from this lesson, follow the guidance in the school's RSHE policy.
More information about the school's RSHE policy can be found by clicking this link.
Books available to support the children with going through puberty
Puberty can be daunting for the children to discuss. Therefore, below you will find a list of books that the children can borrow upon request. You may also be interested in reading it with them or they may feel worried about asking for it: if this is the case, you can message me through ClassDojo to borrow a book.
Books about puberty in boys:
- Growing up for Boys (Dr Emily MacDonagh) - this book is available to year 5 and year 6 and focuses on the changes that occur during puberty in an age-appropriate way.
In school, we also have How to Grow Up and Feel Amazing: The No Worries Guide for Boys (Dr Ranj). This book is a popular choice on Amazon for supporting boys with puberty; however, it does include content that is not taught at primary school. If you would like to see the book, message me through ClassDojo. The children will not be able to borrow this book unless you agree to it through ClassDojo.
Books about puberty in girls:
- Growing up for Girls (Dr Emily MacDonagh) - this book is available to year 5 and year 6 and focuses on the changes that occur during puberty in an age-appropriate way.
- This Period in my Life (Saskia Boujo) - this book is available to year 5 and year 6 and focuses on menstruation and dealing with periods.
Books about everyone:
- How Not to Lose It (Anna Williamson) - this book focuses on mental health - especially during the changes associated with puberty.
- Kay's Anatomy (Adam Kay) - this book covers information about the whole body but does also include information about puberty.
Online Safety - TikTok
It has come to my attention from one of our RSHE lessons, that there may be inappropriate content being created by the children. If your child is on TikTok, it may be useful to discuss with them how to be safe and view their posts. Below is a guide you could use to support your child with this.