FSRH consultation response: FSRH call for Ofsted to take into account the need for medically accurate information and resources in RSE

Ofsted has launched a consultation on their draft “Education inspection framework 2019: inspecting the substance of education”. In our response, we evidenced why the framework must take into account the need for medically accurate information and resources in Relationships and Sex Education (RSE).

In our response we made some of the following points:

• When assessing the quality of education, FSRH evidenced the need for assessment to ensure content is being delivered objectively and with medical accuracy.

• Addressing personal development, we recommended that the framework, and/or accompanying documents make clear that students must be equipped with timely, medically accurate and unbiased information about sex and relationships that allows them to make informed decisions to protect their health.

• Whilst welcoming the framework’s attention to improving staff subject-knowledge, we evidenced the need for teachers to be supported through training and resources, with this support being coupled with dedicated time in the curriculum for RSE.

• Within this context, FSRH highlighted the FSRH RCOG Abortion care factsheet to support RSE lessons. The factsheet is a free resource for professionals in secondary schools to use in RSE lessons.

• FSRH also strongly welcomed the framework’s shift in focus towards rewarding schools that promote the personal development of children, and challenging schools that exclude children without good cause.

You can download our response below.