The Department for Education (DfE) has updated its statutory relationships, sex and health education (RSHE) guidance for September 2026. By then, you’ll need to:
You should also make sure parents/carers have access to your RSHE materials and continue to engage with them, so they know what their children are learning in RSHE lessons
The updated guidance doesn’t come into effect until September 2026, but you can start following it now if you wish. You may want to use this year as a transition period.
Understand the new requirements for primary and secondary schools, which will be statutory from September 2026. Find out what you're expected to cover and what you need to share with parents/carers.
You’ll need to review your policy and curriculum by September 2026 to make sure they’re in line with the new requirements. You’ll also need to consult and engage with parents and carers as part of this process – see the section below for details.
Use our audit tool to find out which of the new RSHE requirements for September 2026 you’re meeting already and where there are gaps you need to fill.
Download and adapt our model RSE policy and see examples of policies from other schools and trusts.
You must consult parents and carers on your policy, and it’s good practice to do the same with pupils and staff.
We're currently working on guidance for consulting pupils and staff – we'll link to those here when they're ready.
Learn how to proactively engage with parents and carers every step of the way as you develop and review your RSHE curriculum, and your policy. Use our resources to help you incorporate the new requirements for RSE, in force from 1 September 2026, into the process.
From September 2026, you must proactively engage with parents/carers on your RSHE policy. You’re also expected to make sure parents/carers are aware of what their children are learning in RSHE lessons.
When the updated requirements come into force in September 2026, you'll need to comply with the new rule that parents/carers can ask to view all your RSHE materials. Learn ways to do this and save time with our adaptable response letters.
With updated RSE requirements coming into force in September 2026, you might have to deal with new complaints from parents/carers about your RSE curriculum. Learn how to proactively engage with parents/carers to minimise objections and handle the most common concerns.
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