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03/05/2023
Evidence-Based Relationship And Sex Education 'Urgently Needed'
The Alliance Party has called for the introduction of a standardised, inclusive and evidence-based relationship and sexuality education (RSE) curriculum for Northern Ireland's schools.
The party's Education spokesperson Connie Egan MLA said that such a curriculum would be "the best way to prepare children and young people for healthy relationships".
Ms Egan made the call following the publication of a report from the Education and Training Inspectorate which stated that 'it was not good enough almost half of schools in Northern Ireland teach little or nothing about sexual consent, LGBTQ+ issues, sexual orientation or gender identity'.
The Education spokesperson and North Down MLA, said: "We need to ensure children and young people receive the RSE they need in order to form healthy relationships.
"A standardised, inclusive and evidence-based RSE curriculum is the best way to do that. We should not shy away from emotive issues and only do our young people a disservice by not discussing these issues in a safe and supportive environment.
"Our teachers should have the support, training, and resources they require to feel confident in delivering RSE in schools, with it being open to inspection like any other subject area.
"It is deeply disappointing but unfortunately not surprising this report suggests LGBTQ+ issues are overlooked and what is taught focuses on heteronormative experiences."
Ms Egan said that when the Executive is restored would being forward a Private Member’s Bill to to introduce standardised, inclusive, evidence-based RSE in schools.
The party's Education spokesperson Connie Egan MLA said that such a curriculum would be "the best way to prepare children and young people for healthy relationships".
Ms Egan made the call following the publication of a report from the Education and Training Inspectorate which stated that 'it was not good enough almost half of schools in Northern Ireland teach little or nothing about sexual consent, LGBTQ+ issues, sexual orientation or gender identity'.
The Education spokesperson and North Down MLA, said: "We need to ensure children and young people receive the RSE they need in order to form healthy relationships.
"A standardised, inclusive and evidence-based RSE curriculum is the best way to do that. We should not shy away from emotive issues and only do our young people a disservice by not discussing these issues in a safe and supportive environment.
"Our teachers should have the support, training, and resources they require to feel confident in delivering RSE in schools, with it being open to inspection like any other subject area.
"It is deeply disappointing but unfortunately not surprising this report suggests LGBTQ+ issues are overlooked and what is taught focuses on heteronormative experiences."
Ms Egan said that when the Executive is restored would being forward a Private Member’s Bill to to introduce standardised, inclusive, evidence-based RSE in schools.
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