From September 2026, all schools will be legally required to update their RSHE curriculum and have an up-to-date written policy for relationships education or (where applicable) RSE in place.

These changes matter because good quality RSHE plays a vital role in preparing pupils for adult life, supporting their moral, social, mental and physical development. Crucially, it is also a key safeguarding tool, helping young people recognise when something is wrong and understand how to seek help.

Many changes to the RSHE curriculum revolve around what it’s like to grow up as a child in 2026 and the new challenges and influences young people face as a result. While some of the topics are more sensitive, the guidance recommends taking a positive approach to learning:

“Schools should focus on building positive attitudes and skills, promoting healthy norms about relationships, including sexual relationships where relevant, and about health, including mental health.

For primary pupils, the updated guidance places a stronger focus on online safety and wellbeing, the use of accurate terminology for body parts and the introduction of personal safety around water, roads, and railways. There’s also greater emphasis on helping children understand change and loss, including bereavement, and on developing communication skills, assertiveness, and the confidence to express personal needs and boundaries.