Jim O'Keeffe (Cork South West, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context

Question 120: To ask the Minister for Education and Science the number of schools offering the full relationships and sexuality module at secondary level; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12943/05]

Mary Hanafin (Dún Laoghaire, Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context

Social, personal and health education, SPHE, is a mandatory part of the curriculum in junior cycle in all post-primary schools with effect from September 2003. The curriculum is designed to promote personal development and the health and well-being of students, help them create supportive relationships and encourage the values and skills for responsible decision making. Issues regarding belonging and integrating, handling conflict constructively, dealing with peer pressure, influences on decision making, substance misuse, relationships and sexuality education, RSE, are dealt with specifically.

In addition, all schools are required to have an agreed school policy and a suitable relationships and sexuality education programme in place for senior cycle pupils. An integrated SPHE programme at senior cycle incorporating RSE is being developed. The curriculum is supported by guidelines for teachers and a full-time support service operating in collaboration with the health boards. An evaluation of the implementation of SPHE is currently under way.