What actually needs to be taught in primary RSE - and what’s optional?

In this episode of Primary Focus, we tackle one of the most commonly misunderstood areas in primary education: the difference between puberty education and sex education.

Because they’re often blurred together, it can create confusion for schools, staff, and parents - especially when it comes to what is statutory in RSE and what isn’t.

Together, they unpack:

- What must be taught in primary schools

- What schools can choose to include

- How the science curriculum overlaps with RSE

- Why parents sometimes misunderstand their right to withdraw

- What age-appropriate sex education actually looks like in Year 5/6

- How to build staff confidence when teaching sensitive topics

Learn more about our panel:

👉 Rebecca Jennings - RSE Consultant for Schools, RAISEhttps://www.raiseeducation.org.uk/

👉 Russell Stanley - PSHE/RSHE Consultant, Health and Wellbeing in Schools LTDhttps://www.schoolhwb.co.uk/

👉 Zoė Higgins - RSE & PSHE Lead, Kapow Primary

The episode also explores practical classroom strategies, including:

- Using correct scientific vocabulary (and why it matters)

- Creating safe discussion spaces with clear ground rules

- Handling tricky questions with confidence

- Whether to teach in mixed or single-sex groups

In this video:

00:00 - Introductions

01:12 - Defining Puberty vs. Sex Education

04:13 - School Policies and Parent Engagement

07:02 - Foundational Learning in Key Stage 1

08:17 - Using Correct Terminology

14:43 - Teacher Preparation and Confidence

19:14 - Helping Pupils Feel Comfortable

26:52 - Grouping Strategies (Single-sex vs. Mixed-sex)

30:37 - Final Advice and Conclusion

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