Relationship and Sexuality Education

As you probably know the guidance for the above subject was published in autumn 2001. It is a subject area which many teachers shy away from and are not keen to teach. Christian teachers are amongst those and we can sometimes try to put up Biblical arguments in order to cover our reluctance to get involved. However, as schools begin to write policies and schemes, it is imperative that Christian teachers do involve themselves.

Why should you get involved? The simple answer is if you don't, there are plenty of other pressure groups that are willing to get involved and have an influence on the teaching content of this delicate subject.

How should you get involved? The DENI circular 1987/45 outlines that each school should have a written policy, which is endorsed by the staff and governors and communicated to parents.
It also states that, 'sex education should be taught in a sensitive manner which is in harmony with the ethos of the school and in conformity with the moral and religious principles held by parents and school management authorities.'You have every right to express your Christian view in the discussions that take place in your school. You may even feel that this is one policy where you would like to volunteer to lead the discussions in your school. Don't fall into the trap of believing that everything will work out all right if you let others get on with it. You may be surprised at the very liberal views amongst teachers in your staffroom.

For example, what is the accepted view of the family? Should abstinence be encouraged? What about the inclusion of homosexuality as an alternative sexuality? Should teenagers be taught about contraceptives? Should Year 7 boys be taught about puberty in girls?

As you can see there are many issues that need to be thought about and we do need a Christian viewpoint involved in the discussions. Hopefully, your RE advisor might be able to give you some help or why not get together with the local clergy, some of whom may be governors, to formulate your ideas before taking part in discussions in school. Christian parents need to be informed and their prayer support encouraged as you involve yourself in this important consultation.

This is an important document and should not be ignored. If we do behave like ostriches, then we will end up with policies in our schools that undermine the Christian morals and values that we hold dear and that most of our schools claim to believe in.
Please, please don't waste the opportunity. Offer to get involved now in order to protect our young people. If you have any questions about the guidance document then please send them by e-mail to: fred@capple.demon.co.uk and hopefully we will be able to help you.