What is RSE?
Relationships and sexuality education (RSE) teaches young people - in an age-appropriate way - about issues related to human sexuality and development. The topics covered in RSE consider the physical, emotional, personal, and social components to an individual's relationships and sexual health.
For further information on what topics truly comprehensive RSE should address, please view this guide from UNESCO about school-based programs and this guide from UNFPA about non-formal and out-of-school programs.
In addition to the more traditional focus on issues such as puberty, reproduction and preventing sexually transmissible infections; RSE now recognises the importance of teaching young people about other topics such as respectful relationships, interacting online, sexually explicit images, diverse sexual orientation and gender identity and protective behaviours. Broader influences are also recognised, with significant crossover between sexual health and other topics such as mental health, and alcohol and other drugs.
The role of homes
RSE starts at home and families are a critical place for young people to learn about their bodies and how to form healthy relationships. As young people get older, families are a safe haven and a support network for someone who is learning about sexual health and their emerging sexuality. Families also have an important role in sharing values and personal perspectives. For help in starting a conversation with the young people in your life, we suggest you view this guide.
The role of schools
RSE is so important in educational settings due to the significant amount of time young people spend at school and the fact that they view this setting as a trustworthy source of information. Schools provide an opportunity for young people to receive learning materials that are developmentally appropriate, consistent with their peers, is often cognisant of their personal or family circumstances, and can link them and their families with local services. Its also really important that they see discussions about relationships and sexual health modelled by a range of adults in their life. This helps to break the taboo and shame that often surrounds sex.
Whilst classroom instruction provides opportunity for RSE, a whole-school approach is a more comprehensive and sustainable approach that is endorsed by the World Health Organization. A whole-school focus considers three key domains:
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curriculum, learning and teaching;
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school organisation, ethos and environment; and
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partnership and services.
This ensures that what students are taught in the classroom, is reinforced in the wider school environment and connects with families, caregivers and the local community.
The role of community
Young people will connect and interact with with lots of community groups as they age. This could include religious groups, cultural groups, sporting clubs and youth groups. They may also be connected with other young people in their local area in lots of other ways. Young people from particular sub-populations (e.g. someone who is Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander, LGBTIQA+, CaLD, or living with a disability) may also form connections with each other. It is also common for young people to make many online connections with others.
All groups with our society have an important role in modelling positive messages about relationships and sexual health, and connecting their members to additional support if needed. In many instances, these community groups may be called upon to provide additional RSE support to young people, that is reflective of their backgrounds and lived experiences.