KS3 & KS4 RSHE (PSHE) curriculum

As Year 8 pupils develop deeper understanding of consent, bodily autonomy and respectful relationships, they need safeguarding knowledge about harmful practices that violate these principles. This unit provides essential information about FGM, virginity testing, hymenoplasty and forced marriage as serious forms of abuse with legal protections. At this developmental stage, pupils can understand these complex issues sensitively, recognise warning signs, know how to seek help, and understand their role in protecting themselves and others from violence against women and girls.

1. FGM
2. Hymenoplasty and virginity testing
3. Forced marriage

• Pupils should understand what constitutes respectful relationships, including that everyone has the right to make decisions about their own body and future without coercion.
• Pupils should be familiar with the concept of consent from earlier learning, recognising that all people deserve bodily autonomy and that forcing someone into harmful practices is abuse.
• Pupils should know from earlier units how to report concerns to trusted adults and access support, understanding that reporting abuse protects both themselves and others.