Relationship and Sex Education is lifelong learning about physical, moral and emotional development. It is about the understanding of the importance of marriage for family life, stable and loving relationships, respect, love and care. It is also about the teaching of sex, sexuality and sexual health. It is not about the promotion of sexual orientation or sexual activity – this would be inappropriate teaching.
It has three main elements:
attitudes and values
learning the importance of values and individual conscience andmoral considerations
learning the value of family life, marriage, and stable and loving relationships for the nurture of children
learning the value of respect, love and care
exploring, considering and understanding moral dilemmas
developing critical thinking as part of decision-making
personal and social skills
learning to manage emotions and relationships confidently and sensitively
developing self respect and empathy for others
learning to make choices based on an understanding of difference and with an absence of prejudice
developing an appreciation of the consequences of choices made
managing conflict
learning how to recognise and avoid exploitation and abuse
knowledge and understanding
learning and understanding physical development at appropriate stages
understanding human sexuality, reproduction, sexual health, emotions and relationships
learning about contraception and the range of local and national sexual health advice, contraception and support services
learning the reasons for delaying sexual activity and the benefits to be gained from such delay
the avoidance of unplanned pregnancy.
This web page has information and advice for all schools as well as practical session plans.