RSHE: How to run a parent/carer consultation

Learn how to proactively engage with parents and carers every step of the way whenever you review your RSHE curriculum and policy.

Last reviewed on 1 September 2026See updates
School types: AllSchool phases: AllRef: 37479
Contents
  1. You must consult parents/carers when you review your RSHE 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 RSHE policy

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 involves a shift away from your policy Primary schools should consult with parents/carers about the content of anything you’ll teach within sex education, including: Offering parents support in talking to their children about sex education, and how to link this to what's being taught in