Sex education

Sex education is an important part of children's preparation for adult life. The purpose of sex education should be to provide knowledge about loving relationships, the nature of sexuality and the processes of human reproduction. At the same time, it should lead to the acquisition of understanding and attitudes which prepare pupils to view their relationships in a responsible and healthy manner. Pupils should be encouraged to consider the importance of self-restraint, dignity, respect for themselves and others, acceptance of responsibility, sensitivity towards the needs of others, loyalty and fidelity. They should be able to recognise the physical, emotional and moral implications, and risks, of certain types of behaviour, and to accept that both sexes must behave responsibly in sexual matters.

Objectives
1. To provide information and resources which are appropriate for different age groups, including access to and information from relevant outside agencies.
2. To provide access to effective teaching materials which are regularly updated.
3. To provide appropriate training and support for teachers.

Organisation
National Curriculum Science is taught in Forms 1 to 5 and covers biological aspects of human reproduction. It will not be possible for parents to ask that their child be withdrawn from these lessons.

The school's programme of Personal, Social and Health Education is addressed throughout all years. There will be reference to AIDS, HIV and other sexually transmitted diseases, as well as to aspects of contraception. Children may be withdrawn from these lessons.

The Right of Withdrawal from Lessons
The Sex and Relationship Guidance: DfEE 0116/2000 in the Learning and Skills Bill 2000 gives parents the right to withdraw their children from any or all parts of the school's programme of sex education, other than those elements which are required by the National Curriculum Science Order. The parental right of withdrawal extends to all pupils including those over compulsory school age. The parental right of withdrawal may be exercised by either parent or by a person who has responsibility or care of the child. Parents do not have to give reasons for their decision although we would like them to indicate their reasons for withdrawal so that any misunderstandings about the nature of the sex education provided by the school can be resolved.

Any request to withdraw a child from all or part of the sex education programme must be made in writing to the Headmaster; parents are asked to indicate from which parts of the programme they wish to withdraw their child.

December 2003