28th November 2019
The National Council for Curriculum and Assessment (NCCA) was asked to undertake a major review of the Relationship and Sexuality Education (RSE) curriculum by former Minister for Education and Skills Richard Bruton TD.
The review began in June 2018 and included an examination of the RSE curriculum, the approach to teaching and learning, supports needed, and ways to improve the experience of RSE for students.
Alongside a host of stakeholders, the Irish National Teachers’ Organisation participated in this consultation. Students, parents, teachers, school leaders, researchers, education unions and organisations brought their experience to bear.
On foot of extensive consultation, the NCCA produced a draft report on the review of RSE in primary and post-primary schools and began a second phase of consultation from July to October 2019.
This consultation was based on proposals in the draft Report which included; the proposed advice for the future approach to RSE, suggestions regarding future curriculum developments, the conditions needed for effective RSE and other considerations. Feedback was facilitated through an online survey, written submissions and a consultative symposium.
All suggestions and feedback will now be carefully considered and will inform a revised report on the review of RSE.
You can find the draft report here.
You can find a summary of the draft report here.
The report and consultation will inform the review of the primary curriculum in the area of Social, Personal, Health Education (SPHE). At present there are no proposals for changes to the SPHE curriculum.
INTO strongly condemns the deliberate efforts to misrepresent the scope of the review and the terms of the draft report in a clear attempt to scaremonger and sow the seeds of fear.
Schools should be inclusive spaces for pupils, parents and teachers regardless of their gender identity or expression of their sexual orientation. An updated RSE curriculum will help to aid educators in dealing with the world we live in, equipping our children to navigate the issues which will confront them in an age appropriate manner.