‘All family life is a ‘shepherding’ in mercy. Each of us, by our love and care, leaves a mark on the life of others…seeking to bring out the best in them’
Amoris Laetitia, chapter 9, 322
Statement for Relationship and Sex Education (RSE)
The Governors at Our Lady’s Catholic Primary School have adopted the developmental programme “A Journey in Love”. This is the recommended resource for the teaching of Relationship and Sex Education because it is compiled specifically to present a Catholic vision. In each Year group, an aspect of love is explored and developed starting from Nursery to Year 6. Our pupils are encouraged to marvel at the wonder and beauty of God’s love reflected in each person under the components; physical, intellectual, social emotional and spiritual.
As children progress through school, they discover more and more about themselves and the wider world. This thirst for learning new things in all aspects of life is fostered by the school, who attempt to create a safe, stimulating environment for learning; supporting all children in their development. Our mission statement which drives the school, attempts to achieve this goal following the Gospel values of love, truth and respect, understanding our journey as children of God, both special and unique.
Central to our work within our school is learning about our faith, including understanding ourselves, our position in our community and how we develop as human beings – our spiritual, social, emotional and physical development. This is how ‘A Journey in Love’ fits in to the school’s curriculum. The scheme permeates through all levels of learning throughout the school. It focuses on friendship, family, community, relationships and spirituality; a guide to the children’s development as young Catholics.
As you would expect, not all issues related to personal development are covered by the end of Year 6. The content is age appropriate and is taught with sensitivity, taking into account the children’s level of maturity in regard to the delivery of the lessons.
As with all aspects of learning, children are naturally curious and many will have questions related to their lessons. Opportunities to discuss questions form part of the lessons and again these are treated with care and understanding. ‘A Journey in Love’ highlights the importance of parental input and children will be told to discuss their lessons at home.
As a parent, you have the right to withdraw your child from Sex Education but not Relationship Education. if you wish to withdraw your child, we would ask that you come and speak to a senior staff member before making a final decision.
We hold an annual parental meeting to give parents and carers an overview of the RSE Curriculum and the Journey in Love scheme. The resources we use at Our Lady’s are available for any parents wishing to view them during each Parents Evening.
