Is PSHE compulsory in the UK?

Can you withdraw a child from PSHE education?

Quick summary

• PSHE is mandatory in England but parents can request withdrawal from some sex education components
• Schools tend to work closely with parents, outlining what will be taught in PSHE so you're kept in the loop
• If you're ever unsure, reach out to your pre-teen or teen's school and ask about their policy

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PSHE, which stands for Personal, Social, Health, and Economic education, is a key part of the school curriculum in England.

Let’s explore whether PSHE is compulsory in the UK, and what that means for your child.

Is PSHE mandatory in the UK?

Yes, PSHE became mandatory in England in September 2020 under the Children and Social Work Act.

Here’s what the law says:

• Primary schools: relationships education is mandatory
• Secondary Schools: relationships and sex education (RSE) is mandatory
• All schools except independent schools: health education is mandatory

How schools teach PSHE

Schools have some flexibility in how they teach PSHE – they can integrate it into their broader curriculum, ensuring that the lessons are relevant and age-appropriate. 

Good PSHE teaching involves breaking down complex topics into manageable parts and providing opportunities for students to apply what they’ve learned in real life.

This is also how luna teaches PSHE topics (it’s “we are luna” in App Stores).

This approach ensures that all students, including those with special educational needs (SEND), can benefit from PSHE.

Can children opt out of PSHE?

Parents have the right to request a withdrawal from specific parts of PSHE.

• Secondary schools: parents can request to withdraw their child from some or all of the sex education components of RSE
• Primary schools: parents can request withdrawal from any sex education that’s not part of the mandatory science curriculum

However, parents cannot withdraw their children from Relationships Education or Health Education.

This ensures that all students receive important lessons on healthy relationships and wellbeing.

What schools need to do, which can reassure parents:

• Have a written policy for Relationships Education and RSE
• Consult with parents about this policy and review it regularly
• Make the policy available to parents and publish it on their website

Working with parents and the community

For PSHE to be effective, schools need to work closely with parents.

Schools should clearly explain what will be taught and when, and provide opportunities for parents to ask questions and understand the curriculum.

By building strong relationships with parents and the community, schools can ensure that PSHE education meets the needs of all students.