RSHE

Intent – why are we doing it?

At Newhaven Kings Park School, our RSHE (Relationships, Sex, and Health Education) curriculum in the Sixth Form is designed to provide students with essential life skills through the lens of autism, helping them make better sense of themselves and the world around them. The aim is to support personal development, strengthen social communication, and enhance emotional awareness. Our curriculum is tailored to equip students with the tools they need to manage situations beyond school and lead independent, fulfilled lives.

The RSHE programme at Key Stage 5 focuses on five key themes across the academic year:

  • Term 1 Personal Development Targets
  • Term 2 Relationships
  • Term 3 Health
  • Term 4 Safety
  • Term 5 Identity

These themes encourage students to build a deeper understanding of their own emotions, relationships, and personal goals. By focusing on these topics, we aim to develop their social communication skills and self-awareness, providing a strong foundation for their future beyond school.

Implementation – how are we doing it?

The RSHE curriculum is implemented in a way that responds to the unique needs of each student, with a particular focus on autism-friendly approaches. Each term’s topic is explored in-depth through structured sessions, practical exercises, and discussions tailored to support students’ learning s

  • Term 1: Personal Development Targets

We begin the year by helping students set personal development goals, focusing on their strengths and areas for improvement. These targets are revisited regularly to encourage reflection and progress, fostering independence and self-confidence.

  • Term 2: Relationships

In Term 2, we explore different types of relationships, including friendships, family, and romantic relationships. Students learn about communication, boundaries, and respect in relationships, with an emphasis on recognising emotions and understanding social cues.

  • Term 3: Health

Health education focuses on both physical and mental well-being, with practical skills like recognising when to seek medical help, how to make and attend appointments, and effective communication with healthcare professionals. Students also complete a basic first aid course, gaining confidence in managing health issues and emergencies. The aim is to equip students with essential health literacy and practical skills for independent living.

  • Term 4: Safety

Personal safety is a crucial part of the RSHE curriculum. In Term 4, students learn how to stay safe both online and in the community. We discuss how to recognise risky situations, protect personal information, and seek help when needed.

  • Term 5: Identity

The final term focuses on identity, exploring how students see themselves and their place in the world. We encourage discussions about self-expression, self-esteem, and individuality, helping students to build a positive sense of identity and navigate the complexities of growing up.

Throughout the curriculum, we integrate strategies that focus on identifying and managing emotions, building social communication skills, and preparing students to handle real-life situations confidently.

Impact:

The impact of the RSHE curriculum at Newhaven Kings Park School is seen in the personal growth of our students as they move towards independence. By the end of the Sixth Form, students have developed a stronger sense of self and a clearer understanding of the world around them.

  • Social Communication: Students improve their ability to communicate effectively with others, recognising and expressing emotions more confidently. This is essential for building positive relationships and managing social interactions beyond the school environment.
  • Emotional Awareness: By identifying and managing their emotions, students are better equipped to navigate complex situations, reducing anxiety and improving their overall well-being.
  • Personal Development: Through setting and achieving personal development targets, students gain a sense of accomplishment and self-reliance, which prepares them for further education, work, or independent living.
  • Real-World Skills: The focus on safety, health, and identity ensures that students are prepared for life beyond school. They leave with the knowledge and skills necessary to stay safe, maintain good health, and express themselves confidently in a variety of settings.

Our RSHE programme helps students develop the self-awareness, social skills, and independence they need to thrive as young adults, with a strong emphasis on understanding their identity within the wider world.