a legal or formal union between two people as partners in a personal relationship

a promise or agreement to be loyal and dedicated to a person, cause or activity

in this context, permission for something to happen or an agreement to do something

rights recognised and protected by the law

Marriage

RSHE (PSHE)

A healthy romantic relationship

Long-term relationships

Civil partnerships

This unit explores different types of committed relationships, including romantic partnerships, marriage and civil partnerships. Pupils learn about the characteristics of healthy long-term relationships, legal rights and protections, and how relationships evolve over time.

Healthy relationships: How do relationships change?

References to forced marriage, violence against women and girls.

Depiction or discussion of sexual violence

a legal or formal union between two people as partners

a promise or agreement to be loyal and dedicated

permission for something to happen or an agreement to do something

{{}} are rights recognised and protected by the law.

strengthens a couple’s emotional connection

Match each reason for marriage with its example.

marriage involves legal rights and financial responsibilities too

only practical benefits matter in marriage

Why is it incorrect to say that "marriage is only about love"?

They provide legal rights like inheritance and tax benefits.

They only protect couples who have expensive wedding ceremonies.

They prevent couples from ever getting divorced.

Which statement best describes how UK marriage laws protect married couples?

What are the different types of marriage in the UK that are legally recognised?

a temporary promise that can be easily broken

avoiding responsibility in difficult situations

a dedicated promise to stick with someone or something

What does the word 'commitment' generally mean in everyday life?

When two people live together as a couple without being married, this is called ...

treating someone with consideration and care

freely agreeing to something without pressure

working together as equals toward shared goals

Match each relationship term with its meaning.

Both people respect each other and communicate openly.

One person makes all the important decisions.

Which statement best describes what makes a relationship healthy?

Which of the following are examples of long-term relationships?

They prefer to have a wedding ceremony first.

They want the same legal rights as married couples.

They want to test their compatibility before making a legal commitment.

They may not believe in marriage as an institution.

Which of these is a common reason why some couples choose to cohabit rather than marry or enter a civil partnership?

Marriage

Lesson outcome

Content guidance