National Guidance on RSE / RSHE
Statutory Guidance Overview
The Department for Education (DfE) provides statutory guidance for Relationships Education, Relationships and Sex Education (RSE) and Health Education. This guidance was last updated on 19 December 2025 and becomes statutory from 1 September 2026 for all schools in England. Schools must have regard to this guidance and ensure their curriculum reflects all updated requirements.
What Schools Must Teach
Primary Schools
- Relationships Education is compulsory.
- Health Education is compulsory.
- Sex Education is not statutory, but schools may choose to teach it.
Secondary Schools
- Relationships and Sex Education (RSE) is compulsory.
- Health Education is compulsory.
Key Changes in the 2025–2026 Updated Guidance
You can read the full statutory guidance here: Download the 2026 implementation guidance
The government’s updated guidance includes significant reforms to ensure RSHE reflects the needs of young people growing up in a digital-first, high‑risk online environment.
1. New age limits for sensitive content
The guidance now sets strict age-appropriateness requirements, preventing children from being exposed to complex or sensitive topics prematurely.
2. Gender identity should not be taught as a standalone concept
The guidance states that gender identity as a theory should not be taught. Schools should instead teach:
- biological sex
- legal aspects of gender reassignment
3. Expanded safeguarding content
New required topics include:
- sexual harassment and sexual violence
- suicide prevention
- online harms including deepfakes, scams, grooming, toxic influencers
- dangers of vaping
- healthy behaviours during pregnancy and miscarriage
- menstrual and gynaecological health (e.g. PCOS, endometriosis) [DfE Statutory guidance]
4. Tackling misogyny and harmful online cultures
The updated guidance places strong emphasis on:
- preventing misogyny and violence against women and girls (VAWG)
- educating about toxic online influence and “manosphere” content
5. Stronger expectations on parental involvement
Parents must be able to:
- view all RSHE materials
- be consulted in curriculum development
- request withdrawal from sex education (but not Relationships or Health Education)
6. Clear requirements for inclusivity and representation
Schools must ensure RSE:
- reflects diverse family structures
- supports LGBTQ+ pupils to feel safe and included
- challenges discrimination and bullying