During Term Four in Year 9 and 10 Health the students will be working through the Sexuality Education component of the course.

Sexuality education is a lifelong process. Through various activities, teachers provide students with the knowledge, understanding and skills to develop positive attitudes towards sexuality. Students are encouraged to take care of their own sexual health and to complete activities to enhance their interpersonal relationships, now and in the future.

The areas to be covered in Sexuality Education across Year 9 include:

Diversity

Communication and decision-making skills relating to relationships

Healthy relationships

Influences on relationships

Consent and respect

Contraception

Addressing the issue of Pornography

The Year 10 Sexuality unit covers aspects of the Hei Huarahi Sexuality programme which most New Zealand Secondary Schools use:

Gender, sexuality and identity

Consent and the law

The nature and dynamics of sexual relationships (including rights and responsibilities, consent and consequences of being sexually active)

Body image and values

Contraception and STI’s

Addressing the issue of Pornography

Messages about sexuality; what are they and where do they come from?

Sexuality Education is a compulsory element of all Year 9 and 10 Health Education programmes.

However, under Section 105D of the Education Act (1964) parents are able to remove their child from all or some of sexuality education classes. If you choose to have your child excluded from these classes, you need to contact your child’s Health teacher. Other arrangements will be made for your child during Health Education time.

If you have any questions or would like further information on the sexuality aspects of the Health Education course, please do not hesitate to contact me at school (311 8888 ext 2103) or email dwk@rangiorahigh.school.nz

Kaylee Dawson

Curriculum Leader of Health