RSE / PSHE

RSE / PSHE Curriculum Intent

At Our Lady Mother of the Saviour Catholic Primary School, our RSE and PSHE curriculum is rooted in Gospel values and the belief that every child is created in the image and likeness of God. The curriculum is designed to support pupils in developing respect for themselves and others, emotional literacy, resilience and a growing understanding of how to live well within relationships and the wider community.

RSE and PSHE are taught through an age-appropriate, carefully sequenced programme that supports pupils’ personal, social, emotional and spiritual development from Early Years through to Year 6. Teaching is guided by the Life to the Full programme, alongside Journey in Love, ensuring that learning reflects Catholic teaching while meeting statutory requirements. The curriculum supports pupils in developing a secure understanding of relationships, emotional wellbeing, physical health and personal safety. Sensitive content is introduced gradually and revisited over time so that pupils can build understanding, confidence and maturity as they grow. Teaching encourages reflection, discussion and respect for difference, helping pupils to develop empathy, self-awareness and responsible decision-making.

Our RSE and PSHE curriculum is inclusive and designed to be accessible to all pupils, including those with SEND. Through clear teaching, discussion, modelling and appropriate adaptations, all pupils are supported to engage with the curriculum in a safe and supportive environment. By the end of primary school, pupils will have developed the knowledge, language and understanding they need to build positive relationships, manage emotions, respect themselves and others, and make informed choices as they move into the next stage of their education.

RSE / PSHE Subject Overview

The RSE and PSHE subject overview shows how key themes are organised and revisited from Early Years to Year 6 to support pupils’ personal, social, emotional and spiritual development over time.

How RSE/PSHE is Taught

RSE and PSHE are taught through a carefully planned and age-appropriate programme that supports pupils’ personal, social, emotional and spiritual development. Teaching follows the Life to the Full programme alongside Journey in Love, ensuring that learning reflects Catholic teaching while meeting statutory requirements. Lessons are delivered in a safe, respectful and supportive environment, where pupils are encouraged to listen, reflect and share their thoughts appropriately. Teaching is discussion-based and allows pupils to explore themes such as relationships, wellbeing, health, safety and respect in ways that are suited to their age and stage of development.

Sensitive content is introduced gradually and revisited over time, allowing pupils to build understanding and maturity as they progress through the school. Clear ground rules are established to promote respect, confidentiality and positive dialogue.

In the Early Years, children begin to develop understanding through stories, talk, role play and reflection. As pupils move through the school, learning becomes more structured and reflective, supporting pupils to develop confidence, emotional literacy and responsible decision-making.

Adaptive Teaching

RSE and PSHE are taught in ways that are inclusive and accessible to all pupils, including those with SEND and those who may face barriers to learning. Adaptations are made through high-quality teaching to ensure that all pupils can engage with learning in a safe and supportive environment. Teaching is carefully paced, with key ideas broken down and revisited to support understanding. Visual supports, stories and structured discussion are used to help pupils explore themes and express their thoughts confidently. Opportunities for talk are scaffolded, and pupils may be supported through smaller group discussion or adult guidance where appropriate. Sensitive or unfamiliar content is introduced thoughtfully, with pre-teaching or additional explanation provided where needed. Alternative ways of recording or responding, such as drawing, verbal explanation or role play, are used to ensure pupils can demonstrate understanding without unnecessary barriers.

Impact

The impact of our RSE and PSHE curriculum is that pupils develop the knowledge, understanding and confidence needed to build positive relationships, manage emotions and make responsible choices. Pupils are able to talk appropriately about relationships, wellbeing, health and safety using age-appropriate language. They demonstrate respect for themselves and others and show increasing emotional literacy, resilience and self-awareness as they progress through the school. By the end of primary school, pupils have developed the understanding and attitudes needed to live out Gospel values, show respect for difference and approach the next stage of their education with confidence, maturity and a strong sense of personal responsibility.