PSHE, RSHE and Citizenship
| Subject Leader of PSHE, RSHE and Citizenship: |
Mr C. Green |
Relationships and Sex Education (RSE) and Health Education are statutory elements of the school curriculum for all secondary-aged pupils. At King James’s School, these subjects are delivered through our broader Personal, Social, Health and Economic Education (PSHE) programme, which also includes elements of economic education and citizenship.
In line with the DfE Relationships Education, Relationships and Sex Education and Health Education statutory guidance (July 2025), we have reviewed and updated our PSHE, RSE and Health Education provision to ensure that it remains current, evidence-informed and responsive to the needs of young people.
For Key Stages 3 and 4, we use the Jigsaw PSHE 11–16 programme, which provides a carefully sequenced, age-appropriate curriculum covering all statutory requirements. The programme develops pupils’ knowledge, skills and understanding across the themed units: Being Me in My World, Celebrating Difference, Dreams and Goals, Healthy Me, Relationships and Changing Me.
Our Sixth Form PSHE provision builds on learning from Key Stages 3 and 4 and is organised around similar themed units. The curriculum focuses on supporting students as they prepare for adulthood, higher education, employment and independent living.
The RSE guidance and a detailed overview of our PSHE, RSE and Health Education curriculum can be accessed below.
- The DfE Relationships Education, Relationships and Sex Education (RSE) and Health Education statutory guidance is available at:
https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/relationships-education-relationships-and-sex-education-rse-and-health-education - Please click the following link to access the King James’s School Personal, Social, Health and Economic Education (PSHE) Policy including Relationships and Sex Education (RSE) and Health Education Policy Document
- An overview of our 11–16 curriculum is available here: (Curriculum overview)
- An overview of our Sixth Form curriculum is available here: (Sixth Form Curriculum).
PSHE is delivered in Period 1 lessons. Students in Years 7-10 receive three 25-minute lessons each week. Year 11 receive one 25-minute lesson a week and Sixth Form students receive two 25-minute lessons a week. Students are assessed regularly on key knowledge and understanding.
Through our PSHE curriculum, we aim to equip all students with the knowledge, skills and attributes they need to keep themselves healthy and safe, develop positive relationships, manage life’s challenges and become confident, responsible members of society. PSHE therefore forms a vital part of our commitment to educating the whole young person.
Citizenship
Citizenship education is embedded throughout our Jigsaw curriculum and Sixth Form programme, forming an important part of our wider PSHE provision. Through our Jigsaw curriculum and Sixth Form programme, Citizenship forms a vital component. Citizenship education at King James’s School is defined as learning that enables young people to understand their rights, responsibilities and role within local, national and global communities. Through citizenship education, pupils develop the knowledge, skills and values needed to participate positively in society, appreciate diversity, uphold democratic values, contribute to their communities, and become active, informed and responsible citizens.
British Values
British Values are embedded throughout our Jigsaw curriculum and Sixth Form programme, supporting pupils to become respectful, responsible and active members of society. At King James’s School, British Values are defined as democracy, the rule of law, individual liberty, and mutual respect and tolerance of those with different faiths and beliefs. Through the promotion of these values, pupils develop the knowledge, skills and understanding needed to participate positively in modern Britain, appreciate diversity, respect the rights of others, and contribute confidently to their communities.
You can see where British Values are taught in our curriculum here: British Values
Sex Education
Sex education at King James’s School is defined as learning about human reproduction and how pregnancy can occur, including sexual intercourse and other methods of conception such as IVF and surrogacy. Sex education is taught within the wider context of Relationships and Sex Education (RSE), which promotes healthy, respectful and safe relationships, enabling young people to make informed and responsible decisions about their health and wellbeing.
For a more detailed guide on Relationships, Sex and Health education at our school, please click here.
In accordance with our PSHE/RSE Policy, parents and carers may request that their child is withdrawn from the Sex Education components of the PSHE curriculum only. Parents and carers are also entitled to view PSHE/RSE teaching materials upon request. To make either request, or if you have any questions regarding PSHE/RSE provision at the school, please contact admin@king-james.co.uk.
For a detailed overview of where Sex Education is delivered within our curriculum, please click here.
