To make sure our curriculum meets these expectations and reflects the needs of our school community, we are currently reviewing our RSE curriculum and policy.
We want this process to be shaped by the voices of our parents and carers. Your feedback is extremely important to us.
As we develop our updated curriculum, we are taking into account the needs and backgrounds of all our pupils, including their:
Our goal is to ensure that the curriculum is appropriate, inclusive and supportive for every student.
Please take a few minutes to look through the The Birley Academy’s RSE 2026 policy and curriculum map using the link further down this page.
After reviewing the policy and curriculum map, we invite you to complete our Parent and Carer Consultation Questionnaire using the link below. Your responses will help us shape the final version of the policy and ensure it reflects the needs and values of our school community.
If you would prefer to discuss the policy in person, we warmly welcome you to attend one of our RSHE Policy Drop-in Afternoons. There’s no need to book – simply choose which session you wish to attend.
Members of staff will be available at both sessions to talk through the policy, answer questions and listen to your views.
To help you understand the expectations for RSE, we have outlined some frequently asked questions below.
If you plan on joining one of our focus groups later in the year, we recommend you read this information before attending.
Relationships and Sex Education helps pupils develop the knowledge, skills and values needed to build healthy relationships, stay safe, and understand physical and emotional changes. It also supports them in preparing for adult life responsibly and respectfully.
Health Education and Relationships Education are compulsory for all pupils. Parents may request to withdraw their child from specific aspects of Sex Education that go beyond the national curriculum for Science.
If you are considering this, please contact the academy to discuss your request.
The curriculum includes:
Lessons are delivered by trained staff in a safe, supportive environment. Teaching is age appropriate, inclusive, and aligned with both our academy policy and government guidance.
We consider pupils’ age, maturity, cultural and religious backgrounds, and any additional needs. Our aim is to provide inclusive, factual teaching while respecting the diverse community we serve.
Yes. Parents are welcome to review curriculum overviews and teaching resources. Please see details in the policy of how these materials can be viewed.
You can complete the online questionnaire, attend the RSHE Policy Drop–In Afternoons, or contact the academy to arrange a conversation with a member of the RSE team. We welcome ongoing feedback throughout the year.
We will review all responses and use them to help shape the final curriculum and policy. Once complete, we will share updates and outline how your feedback has informed our decisions.
To support your understanding of the new expectations, we have included a helpful summary outlining what pupils should know by the end of secondary school. If you plan to join one of our focus groups, we encourage you to read this information beforehand.
We welcome your thoughts on our RSE curriculum throughout the year. More details about focus groups and future opportunities to get involved will be shared soon.
Thank you for taking the time to help shape this important part of our curriculum.
