Policy on sexuality education

TAMARIKI SCHOOL BOARD OF TRUSTEES

POLICY ON SEXUALITY EDUCATION

NAG 5

RATIONALE

Because learning about sexuality can be an integral part of everyday life, the perception young people have about themselves as sexual beings affects their expectations, aspirations, social roles, living, and learning as well as governing their sexual behaviour and ultimately their total health.

 

AIMS

1. To assist students to gain accurate and honest information about sexuality.

2. To encourage students to clarify their own values and understand the values of their family and community.

3. To assist students to develop the skills they need to make responsible decisions about their personal relationships, sexual behaviour, and sexual health.

4. To assist students to understand their rights of access to health-care services and find out more about guidance, counselling, and other supportive services, both within and beyond the school.

 

GUIDELINES

1. Sexuality education is an integral part of the health education programme in the school.

2. In every alternate year (odd years) when the health education curriculum is developed and reviewed, in consultation with students, staff, parents/ caregivers, and the Board of Trustees, the sexuality education component of the proposed programme will be defined. The Board of Trustees is responsible for the consultation process.

3. In consultation with the school community and in accordance with the MOE Sexuality Guidelines for Boards, Principals and teachers  http://health.tki.org.nz/Teaching-in-HPE/Policy-guidelines/Sexuality-education-a-guide-for-principals-boards-of-trustees-and-teachers a Sexuality Education will be developed and delivered to year 1-8 students at an age appropriate level.

4. In accordance with MOE best practice guidelines (see above link) school staff who know the children well will deliver the programme. Outside providers such as The Family Planning Association may be used to support.

5. The community will be informed of topics which will be covered, invited to discuss any issues of concern and to view resources, and parents will be told of their right to withdraw a child from any part of the programme.  Teaching staff will be available to discuss the content of sexuality education courses with parents/caregivers.

 

REVIEWED  and ADOPTED: NOVEMBER 2017

NEXT REVIEW DATE: NOVEMBER 2020