SEX EDUCATION POLICY

Rationale

Maturation is a natural and varied process and young people are constantly exposed to differing information, values and attitudes about relationships, sex and sexuality from a variety of sources. Although the teaching and support offered by a school should be complementary to, and supportive of, the key role of parents in preparing their children for these changes, it may also provide the only structured approach to sex education that a child receives.

Purposes

To help pupils to:

1. Prepare for and come to terms with the physical developments which will take place in their bodies. In particular to understandthat variations in size, growth rate and age of onset of puberty are normal.
2. Cope with the accompanying emotional changes in a sensibleand mature way.
3. Develop knowledge and understanding of human reproduction, including the use of appropriate language.
4. Develop the skills, attitudes and values which will enable pupils to make informed, reasoned and responsible decisions about the behaviour they will adopt both while at school and in adulthood.
5. Counteract myth, misunderstanding and folklore.
6. Manage different types of relationships and be aware of their responsibilities and the possible consequences of their own actions on others.
7. Be aware of the physical, emotional and moral risks of inappropriate, casual or promiscuous sexual behaviour.
8. Understand that they have rights over their bodies and to encourage the development of personal safety skills.

Specific lessons using published materials and television programmes will usually take place in year 5. Parents are welcome to view these materials. If a parent has any concerns, staff will be happy to talk to them. The objective is to deal with all issues sensitively and with parental support. Parents do have the right to withdraw children from aspects of sex education not covered by the National Curriculum.