BLOG | “The updated statutory guidance for RSHE reflects on children and young people’s real-world experiences”

At the end of the summer term 2025, the DfE released its updated statutory guidance for Relationships, Sex and Health Education (RSHE). PSHE Specialist, Julie McCann, shares how leaders can reflect, plan, and prepare ahead of implementation.

“Last updated in 2019, the new guidance marks a significant step forward in supporting our children and young people’s personal development and wellbeing.

So, what’s new?

The updated statutory guidance for RSHE reflects on real-world experiences including:

• Emphasis on prevention of harms
• Supporting with developing skills and knowledge to thrive in all aspects of their life know and, in the future,
• Knowing when and how to ask for help and support, and report harm and abuse
• Reducing violence against women and girls
• Understanding privacy, personal data and awareness of financial harms
• Awareness of their personal safety and managing risk
• The addition of vaping and nicotine addiction when teaching about drugs and alcohol
  
  With implementation required by September 2026, school leaders can use this academic year to reflect, plan and prepare - ensuring their curriculum not only meets statutory expectations but also aligns with the wider reforms to the Ofsted inspection framework.
  
  From November 2025, personal development and wellbeing also becomes a core evaluation area, reinforcing the importance of planning for high-quality PSHE education that helps children build resilience, navigate health and relationships, and develop the skills they need to thrive.
  
  The guidance supports schools to identify what’s expected and a specialist CPD and a planned programme of learning will allow staff to develop the skills, knowledge and confidence to deliver a curriculum that fosters kindness, celebrates inclusion, develops self-awareness and contributes to safe, and respectful communities.”

Professional Learning

In-person and online sessions explore the world of PSHE and health and well-being.

Future themes include developing the role of the subject leader, crafting an effective PSHE policy development and exploring diversity & inclusion.

New for 2025/26: Safe and Effective PSHE is a pre-recorded self-paced learning series covering teaching strategies, handling questions and disclosures, and creating a safe learning environment.

Explore & Book