Providing Relationships and Sex Education for Special Learners: An Essential Guide for Developing RSE Provision

Effective Relationships and Sex Education (RSE) provision is a right for all learners, yet it often proves challenging for educators and caregivers, particularly those teaching learners with additional needs.

This book provides practical guidance for teachers and Special Educational Needs Coordinators (SENCOs) who require the knowledge, skills and confidence to deliver effective RSE to young people with Special Educational Needs. It offers both specific support tailored to pupils with Profound & Multiple Learning Difficulties (PMLD) and Severe Learning Difficulties (SLD), Down’s Syndrome and Autism, as well as broad support to embed a whole-school approach in mainstream and special settings.

Chapters guide the reader through a range of key topics, with advice, strategies and ready-to-use resources to teach RSE in a positive and respectful way.

This much-needed book will be invaluable for education professionals, residential care providers, and anybody looking to support young people with Special Educational Needs as they learn about relationships and sex. It will also help schools to meet statutory requirements covering the delivery of Relationships and Sex Education.

Table of Contents

Introduction: The Importance of Relevant RSE for Special Learners

1. Whole School RSE Assessment and Development Planning
2. Developing Staff Confidence in the delivery of RSE
3. Getting Parents on board
4. RSE for PMLD & SLD: Strategies & Teaching Ideas
5. RSE for Down’s Syndrome: Strategies & Teaching Ideas
6. RSE for ASD: Strategies & Teaching Ideas
7. Planning Ahead: Securing Sustained Development in RSE

Appendix 1 Self Assessment, Learner Assessment

Appendix 2 Staff Questionnaire