February 24th, 2015
Yesterday, the Minister released the updated Health and Physical Education Curriculum, with changes to the sexual education segment of the document. Also released was a Parents Guide to help them have discussions with their kids about elements of the curriculum. While acknowledging that teaching about some topics should be between parents and their children, the Minister also noted that the government has a responsibility to provide young people with accurate information that will promote their health and safety. A public opinion poll found that 93 per cent of parents wanted a new sex ed curriculum and 90 per cent wanted schools to teach it. An important addition to the curriculum is the concept of consent and healthy relationships. Teachers will be receiving training from the ministry in April and May of this year as schools are expected to teach the new curriculum as of September 2015.
In addition, we have provided for you two documents that are attached to this message – Key Messages and Myths vs Facts. Please read these documents as they will give you an overview about the updated curriculum. If you have any questions or concerns, please contact me at the school.
Myths vs Facts – HPE 2015 02 22 Sectors
Helmut Tinnes, Principal