Relationships and Sex Education to be made compulsory in schools

It has been proposed nationally that Relationships and Sex Education (RSE) is made compulsory in all schools in England, the Government has announced. The proposal recommends all children from the age of four are taught about safe and healthy relationships. The proposal is yet to become law, but is certainly a positive step.

Warwickshire County Council, Public Health has developed age appropriate sexual health and relationship education programmes for  primary aged children called Spring Fever and for all secondary schools called Doing it!  A number of schools have taken advantage of these innovative resources  and with the changes publicised yesterday more schools will now be able to join them. This is a free service for all schools in Warwickshire.

Spring Fever

Summary: Spring Fever is tailored to the sexual development phases of children. It offers an age appropriate method of acquiring the knowledge, attitudes and skills needed. As a result, children are better prepared for any subsequent sexual contacts in later life. They also better understand relationships and sexual health. Spring Fever offers fun and responsible support in providing relationships and sexual health education.

Schools that have given senior management support to the programme have noticed the benefits, not only to the children, but also the school itself. Teachers notice that the children become more open both in asking questions about human sexuality and in their interaction with one another.

Doing It!

Summary: Doing It! Is a sex positive Relationship and Sex Education (RSE) programme for Teachers and young people. The package covers work and campaigns suitable for all years groups from 7-13 and is a complete package of training and resources to be used in secondary schools across Warwickshire.

respectyourself.info, is the County Council’s web resource for 13 to 25 year olds in Warwickshire providing advice and education on relationships and sexual health. The site is safe and reliable, where young people can explore issues that are important to them. The site is monitored and supported by professionals who provide answers to encourage young people to take control of their relationships and to move at a pace they are comfortable with

To find out more about about Public Health Warwickshire’s work supporting RSE contact;

Luke Carter , Respect Yourself Programme Manager

lukecarter@warwickshire.gov.uk, 01926 414984