At Brookhaven, we believe Relationships, Sex and Health Education should empower every young person to understand themselves, keep safe and build respectful, healthy relationships.
RSHE Curriculum Intent Statement
Our RSHE provision is inclusive, carefully sequenced and responsive to individual need, supporting learners to develop knowledge, communication skills and confidence at a pace that is right for them. RSHE is delivered in a way that prioritises safeguarding, emotional wellbeing and dignity, recognising the diverse developmental profiles of our learners.
Brookhaven takes a baseline-led and safeguarding-focused approach to RSHE. Students' prior understanding is assessed before introducing learning around puberty, relationships or sex — ensuring content is always appropriate, safe and meaningful, and that learning progresses gradually to support emotional safety and comprehension.
Curriculum Framework & Affiliations
RSHE at Brookhaven is informed by high-quality, nationally recognised resources and guidance, all of which are adapted to meet the specific needs of our learners using clear language, visual support, repetition and structured routines:
- Jigsaw PSHE Programme
- PSHE Association guidance and frameworks
- My Mind Coach — supporting mental health, resilience and emotional wellbeing
RSHE content is revisited and reinforced over time to support understanding, retention and real-life application, with learning tailored to EHCP outcomes and individual support plans.
Curriculum Content
RSHE covers age-appropriate and developmentally appropriate learning across:
- Relationships and friendships
- Personal safety and boundaries
- Emotional wellbeing and mental health
- Puberty and body changes
- Healthy relationships and consent
- Online safety and digital relationships
Vocational Pathway
RSHE is linked to preparation for adulthood, workplace expectations and community participation. Focus on communication, understanding boundaries, personal safety and respectful interactions.
Independence Pathway
Highly practical and concrete learning focused on routines, body awareness, trusted adults and safe choices. Strong emphasis on visual support, repetition and consistent language.
RSHE is delivered collaboratively, with strong partnerships ensuring every student receives safe, expert and well-supported teaching.
Teaching, Learning & Assessment
Lessons are structured, predictable and visually supported. Sensitive topics are taught in small steps using clear and factual language. Progress is monitored through Brookhaven Steps, recognising personal development and understanding rather than comparison. Student voice is valued — learners are supported to ask questions, express concerns and build self-advocacy skills.
Partnerships & Support
RSHE is delivered in collaboration with pastoral staff, safeguarding leads and therapy teams where appropriate. External facilitators are planned into the curriculum to offer learners the opportunity to learn from trained professionals, bringing specialist knowledge, real-life context and trusted expertise into RSHE in a safe and carefully managed way. Families are informed and supported, with clear communication around curriculum content and approach.
Brookhaven's RSHE programme reflects our commitment to keeping students safe, informed and respected. By combining careful baselining, trusted resources and SEND-informed practice, we ensure every learner receives education that supports healthy relationships, personal wellbeing and preparation for adult life.