PSHE update: Essentials for the new academic year

There may still be some confusion about statutory RSHE guidance and where schools stand since the publication of draft new guidance for consultation in May. The election took place before the consultation closed — and although the new government has committed to reviewing responses — there are no firm timescales or plans for next steps at this point. All we know is that any consideration of RSHE guidance will take time, during which we hope widespread concerns about the draft's shortcomings will be taken on board.

In the meantime, you should continue to plan, monitor and review your PSHE curriculum as you have always done, updating lessons and schemes of learning where necessary, based on the needs of your pupils. Our guidance, resources and training will help you do so with confidence.

Should I be changing my curriculum to reflect the updated draft guidance?

No. The current RSHE guidance introduced in 2019 — although not perfect — is based on firm evidence and will be in force for the foreseeable future while any updates are considered. The version published in May was only published as draft for consultation, with a view to being finalised when the many thousands of submissions were considered. The draft guidance in its current form raises many questions and contradictions about how best to progress with some complex areas in PSHE education, and until this is clarified schools should continue to adhere to the existing guidance.

So shall I wait for the new guidance before I plan or update my PSHE curriculum?

No. Schools should plan now using the current statutory guidance as any analysis of consultation responses and resulting updates will take some time to finalise. Even when any updated RSHE guidance is finalised and introduced, schools will have a reasonable implementation period until they have to change their curriculum and guidance to reflect it. Waiting for new guidance risks your pupils missing out on vital learning, so we urge colleagues to continue with the annual process of review, development and updates they would typically be making to their RSHE policy, their engagement work with parents, and their planning of PSHE schemes of learning and lesson plans.

Where do I start?

As always, we’re here to help! If you’re new to leading PSHE, or looking for some inspiration to get started on planning and updates for this academic year, we have all the support you need.

• Why not join us on our popular primary or secondary Leadership and Management training courses in London on 24^th September? Come together with other PSHE leads to discuss your experiences in school and build confidence around all aspects of their leadership role.
• Develop your understanding and get practical ideas for Assessment, Evaluation and Adaptive Teaching in PSHE on our primary and secondary online courses this term.
• Create an empowered team and help colleagues understand the fundamentals of PSHE safe and effective practice on our Teaching PSHE confidently and effectively full day course in November, suitable for anyone new to teaching the subject.
• Get advice on how best to Engage with Parents about any forthcoming changes to the RSHE curriculum, in both primary and secondary.
• See our wide range of twilight courses on topics from puberty to pornography, and online harms to drug and alcohol education. This term, we are offering a new course on Assessment Tips for pupils with SEND.