At PA High, we place a strong emphasis on preparing our students on embodying our values of integrity, excellence and service. As part of this, we believe that all our students should be given the opportunity to grow and understand themselves and each other in a safe environment free from prejudice and harm. Incumbent to this is a secure understanding of who our children are, what the world around them looks and feels like and how they can navigate all of the moving parts whilst staying true to their own identity.

At PA High, we understand that relationships come in different forms and students should understand what it means to be in a healthy, wholesome relationship where the parameters of acceptable behaviour are clearly outlined. We believe, too, that students should understand the impact positive relationships have on mental well-being. Through gaining knowledge of healthy relationships, students will be able to identify unhealthy relationships and how best to navigate those should they encounter them. Additionally, an understanding of contraception, developing intimate relationships and resisting pressure to engage in any activity that makes students uncomfortable is what sits at the core of a healthy relationship. We do not encourage early sexual experimentation. We also do not endorse any sexual orientation.

Our aim is to empower students to build confidence and self-esteem. We want our students to make informed choices. This is why we teach all aspects of healthy relationships including resisting pressure and, where applicable, delaying sexual activity. Our aim to broaden our students understanding of developing safe, fulfilling, and healthy sexual relationships hinges on our belief that learning about this is an entitlement for all our students. Knowledge about intimate relations and STI remains important to ensure that students are equipped to make safe, informed and healthy choices as they progress through adult life and allow students to ask questions in a safe, non- judgemental environment.

We believe RSE is an important educational entitlement. Without it our students will not be able to fully learn how to respect themselves and others. This entitlement supports their understanding of changes during adolescence, and prepares them for healthy, nurturing relationships of all kinds, not just intimate relationships.

If you would like to find out more, you can read our full RSE Policy.