At Abingdon, Relationships & Sex Education (RSE) is a multidisciplinary journey taught within PSHCE, Biology, and Philosophy & Theology, as well as through our lecture series and specialist RSE days in Third and Fifth Year. It is built on the principle that knowledge is the best form of protection.
Our curriculum is carefully sequenced to ensure students are equipped with the skills to navigate different life experiences in a positive way before they occur. This method, supported by both internal specialists and external experts, empowers our students to develop healthy, respectful relationships while understanding the legal and ethical nuances of the modern world. We operate with complete transparency, working in partnership with parents to ensure our teaching is inclusive, age-appropriate, and provides a secure foundation for adult life.
Our RSE curriculum is structured around six core pillars that evolve in complexity as students move through the school:
- Anti-bullying & DEI: moving from basic kindness to becoming an Upstander who actively promotes Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion.
- Values & Pleasure: exploring personal values and fostering positive, respectful messaging around intimacy.
- Consent: developing a nuanced understanding of the law and the communication skills required for healthy boundaries.
- AI Education: navigating the ethics, safety, and impact of AI on relationships and self-image.
- PERMA Wellbeing: using the evidence-based model of Positive emotions, Engagement, Relationships, Meaning, and Achievement.
- Media Literacy: identifying mis/disinformation and deepfakes to ensure students can access accurate support.
For more information about our RSE curriculum, please contact the Head of Wellbeing.
