RSHE: How to run a parent/carer consultation

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.

Last reviewed on 17 October 2025See updates
School types: AllSchool phases: AllRef: 37479
Contents
  1. You must consult parents/carers when you review your RSE policy
  2. Overview of the consultation process
  3. Inform parents/carers of the consultation
  4. Run focus groups to consult parents on your curriculum
  5. Once you’re happy with your curriculum, consult on your policy
  6. Follow up with parents
  7. Next steps

Note: where we've referred to 'parents' in this article, take this to mean both parents and carers.

You must consult parents/carers when you review your RSE policy

Before 1 September 2026, you’ll need to review your RSHE curriculum and policy to reflect the updated relationships and sex education (RSE) and health education guidance. You must follow this guidance from September 2026, but you can begin implementing it earlier if you wish. 

When you’re reviewing and developing your policy, you must:

  • Consult with parents/carers 
  • Make sure parents/carers understand that RSHE is important for promoting and protecting the wellbeing and safety of all children

Consult with parents/carers in advance on the content of external resources used to teach LGBTQ+ topics Make all materials available to parents/carers on request Inform parents/carers when you need to include new content in RSHE to respond to emerging needs or issues in the school, especially if this