Puberty Education Resource 

The Public Health Team of Newcastle City Council are aware that in some city schools many pupils often receive formal puberty education sessions during the Spring and Summer terms. Schools should be teaching this as part of their science and PSHE curriculum, reinforced by the 0-19 years school nursing service. However, because of lockdown, children missed out on this aspect of their education.  

• Children and young people have a right to access accurate information, support and advice on puberty, at a timely point for their age, maturity and development. They need this before they start going through these changes, so they know what to expect.

• Puberty can be a tricky time for children and young people. Support from parents and carers can help children navigate puberty with confidence, reducing embarrassment and emotional upset.

• It is appreciated that talking about puberty can be difficult. With schools currently closed, Newcastle City Council has developed a resource to help parents talk about body and emotional changes, associated with puberty, with their child.