SEX EDUCATION

The importance of caring, loving relationships is taught to all pupils in their daily lives, through the vehicle of Religious Education and is reinforced through the themes addressed in school collective acts of worship.

Children are given the foundations of informed decision making through regular involvement with stories, events, accounts of other peoples' lives, families and religious festivals, which reinforce the need to care for, support, understand and 'love' others.

The basic caring ethic and school ethos underpins the message that in a caring, understanding relationship, there is mutual trust, interdependency and unselfishness.

This forms the platform for what might be called the 'formal' side of sex education, which is introduced with the help, support and expertise of our school health visitor. She has a direct input into teaching and is also available as a consultant and guide.

In Year Five and Six, she will introduce video material which teaches children about their developing bodies and those of the opposite sex. Parents are informed about this before the event and all parents of children in Year Five and Six have the opportunity to view the video on a separate occasion. This enables the parents to share the issues raised with their children.

Within the classroom, an atmosphere within which children can ask questions is created. Sensible attitudes concerning bodily functions are promoted.