Consultation on our Relationships and Sex Education Policy has now closed.

The Department for Education has introduced new relationships and sex education (RSE) and health education guidance that schools are required to follow from 1st September 2026. 

Omega Multi-Academy Trust has held a consultation with our school communities to explain the RSE policy changes, explain how we currently teach RSE, and gather views on how well this curriculum works. Parents/ carers were encouraged to respond to the consultation with any queries or concerns they may have about changes to the current RSE policy and the way RSE is taught in school. 

Thank you to all parents and carers who contributed to the consultation on the proposed Relationships & Sex Education (RSE) Policy. We appreciate the time taken by our school communities to review the policy and provide feedback. 

Overview of Responses 

Responses were received representing a range of schools within the Trust and the feedback has provided useful insight into the views of parents/carers. 

Overall, the consultation indicates strong support for the proposed RSE Policy, with all respondents either supporting or strongly supporting its adoption. There were no responses received via the consultation which indicated opposition. 

Key Findings 

1. Strong Support for the Policy 

All respondents expressed a positive view of the policy, with the majority indicating strong support. This indicates a high level of confidence in both the intent and structure of the proposed approach to RSE. 

2. Clarity and Accessibility 

Most respondents reported that the policy is clear and easy to understand. A small proportion indicated that some aspects could be clarified further, particularly around curriculum detail. 

3. Understanding of Curriculum Content 

The majority of respondents feel they understand what will be taught across different age phases. However, in a few areas some uncertainty remains, suggesting schools could provide more clarity about progression and content of the RSE curriculum.  

4. Confidence in Age Appropriateness 

All respondents agreed that the content outlined in the policy is age-appropriate. This reflects strong alignment between the policy and parental expectations. 

5. Parental Confidence and Engagement 

Parents reported high levels of confidence in discussing RSE topics with their children. There is also clear interest in engaging with schools through access to resources and information. 

6. Online Safety as a Development Area 

While confidence in the curriculum is generally positive, responses suggest that online safety and digital aspects of RSE may benefit from further strengthening, particularly in preparing pupils to manage online risks and pressures. 

Actions in Response to Consultation 

In light of the feedback received, we will be working with our schools to take the following actions; 

  • Enhance curriculum transparency by providing clearer, phase-by-phase overviews of RSE content for parents and carers. 

  • Strengthen online safety education within the curriculum, ensuring pupils are well-equipped to navigate digital environments safely. 

  • Develop and share parent resources, including guidance materials to support conversations at home. 

  • Offer optional engagement opportunities where appropriate, such as information sessions or workshops for parents who would like further support on specific areas. 

Conclusion 

The consultation demonstrates strong support for the RSE Policy and confirms that the proposed approach aligns well with stakeholder expectations. The feedback has been invaluable in identifying areas for further development, particularly in communication and online safety. 

We will continue to work in partnership with parents and carers to ensure that RSE provision remains effective, inclusive, and responsive to the needs of our school communities. 

We will be taking the RSE Policy to Trust Board for their approval in July, ready for full implementation from September 2026.