Relationship and Sexuality Education – an Alternative

We all agree that young people need truthful and positive education about their bodies, sexuality, reproduction and contraception. But lately many parents have become concerned about the content of some of the health lessons being provided to their tamariki. Parents have noticed that beliefs and values they do not subscribe to are being taught to their children as facts. Some of the topics, although important for children to know as they mature, are being taught at a disturbingly young age. Also, some content coaches children to take part in actions for social change, without reference to the wide range of values in the community.

It is important that young children are taught to be accepting of difference but there is no need to mention gender identities or transgenderism at an early age. Discussion of such ideas properly belongs with older students, near or during puberty, and then they should be presented in a balanced way, as with any subject that is contentious, with the beliefs and values of parents being equally respected.

Young children do not need lengthy expositions about gender identity.

This resource, adapted from the Ministry of Education’s Relationship and Sexuality Guidelines (2020),  provides an outline of age-appropriate relationship and sexuality education that is respectful of the values of all individuals and whānau.

Key learning at Curriculum Level 1 - Years 1 & 2 (5 - 7 years old)

Our suggested Level 1 Lesson plans can be found here

Key learning at Curriculum Level 2 - Years 3 & 4 (8 – 9 years old)

Our suggested Level 2 Lesson plans can be found here

Key learning at Curriculum Level 3 - Years 5 & 6 (10 - 11 years old)

Our suggested Level 3 Lesson plans can be found here

Key learning at Curriculum Level 4 - Years 7 & 8 (12 - 13 years old)

Our suggested Level 4 Lesson plans can be found here

Key learning at Curriculum Level 5 - Years 9 & 10 (14 - 15 years old)

Our suggested Level 5 Lesson plans can be found here