RSHE: Delivering an inclusive curriculum for SEND learners

It is finally here: statutory relationships, sex and health education (RSHE) for every child. The government guidance is very clear that ‘relationships education, RSE and health education must be accessible for all pupils'. Framing teaching in the Equalities Act, the guidance stipulates that this is particularly important for the large minority of our learners who have SEND, both in special schools and mainstream settings (Department for Education, 2019).

The key to delivering an inclusive RSHE curriculum is differentiation and personalisation. But with such diversity of needs and ability, how do we offer a truly differentiated learning experience in mainstream secondary classrooms?

In many ways, special schools and specialist settings have the inside track on differentiation. Often enjoying more generous timetable allocations, perhaps with a whole-school focus more attuned for skills for life and preparation for adulthood. In special schools we can take our time, focus on the journey and overlearn.