Relationships and Sex Education

Click Here to read our Relationships and Sex Education (RSE) Policy 23-24

This policy covers Cockburn School’s whole school approach to Relationships and Sex Education (RSE). We believe that RSE is vital for the personal, social and emotional development of our students. It equips children and young people with the information, skills and values they need to have safe, respectful and enjoyable relationships and empowers them to take responsibility for their sexual health and well-being.

Cockburn School believes that all children and young people have a right to holistic, inclusive and needs-led RSE. We believe that through providing high quality RSE, we are upholding the ethos, Values and Expectations of our school and its commitment to equality and celebration of difference. We ensure the policy is effectively communicated to staff and parents, including through publishing the policy on our school website. The policy complies with our statutory obligations to deliver RSE under sections 34 & 35 of the Children and Social Work Act 2017. It has due regard for the DfE’s statutory Relationships Education, Relationships and Sex Education and Health Education Guidance and other relevant guidance.

The governing body of Cockburn School adopted this policy in September 2023. It will review the policy in September 2024. In adopting this policy, the Governing Body recognises its responsibility for ensuring the policy is implemented effectively, including that the subjects are resourced, staffed and timetabled in a way the ensures that the school fulfils its legal obligations.


RSE is about the emotional, social and cultural development of students, and involves learning about relationships, sex, sexual health, sexuality, healthy lifestyles, diversity and personal identity. It should support children and young people in managing mental health, puberty and adolescence and prepare them for an adult life in which they can:

  • Develop positive values and a moral framework that will guide their decisions, judgements and behaviours
  • Have the confidence and self-esteem to value themselves and others
  • Behave responsibly within personal and sexual relationships
  • Communicate effectively
  • Neither exploit others, nor be exploited
  • Access confidential advice and support
  • Understand how to keep themselves safe and to keep their peers safe

RSE involves a combination of sharing information, and exploring issues and values with students. It is not about the promotion of sexual activity.