School-based considerations
Important considerations for schools before delivering sexuality and sexual health education.
Principles for effective sexuality and sexual health education
The principles for sexuality and sexual health education provide a framework of evidence-based practices and values to support schools with effective sexuality and sexual health education practice. The principles should be used by school staff to inform the planning, implementation and review of school-based sexuality and sexual health education programs, policies and practices.
Reviewing suitability of resources for students and local context
The resource review flowchart (PDF 307 KB) assists teachers in making informed decisions about the suitability of teaching and learning resources for implementation of PDHPE and Life Ready. Guiding questions support teachers and leaders to critically evaluate resources ensuring they are fit for purpose. These decisions are based on the suitability of the materials for the local context and in meeting student needs.
Guidelines for engaging external providers for curriculum delivery
Guidelines to support NSW public schools in meeting curriculum requirements when engaging external providers (DOCX 73 KB)
Communicating with parents and carers
All schools in NSW are required to teach courses of study in accordance with the outcomes of syllabuses developed by NSW Education Standards Authority.
Some aspects of PDHPE may be viewed as sensitive or controversial, such as learning about abuse, child protection, drugs, respectful relationships, sexual health, sexuality, and violence.
It is essential that principals and school staff communicate with parents and carers about the delivery of sexuality and sexual health content that may be considered sensitive or controversial. This includes content that is delivered by visiting speakers, external providers and any student organised activities.
Download and modify the sample letters to communicate with your school community about your teaching and learning programs.
- Years 7 to 10 PDHPE information letter (DOCX 44.4 KB)
- Sexuality and sexual health education information for parents – K–6 (DOCX 61.3 KB)
- Sexuality and sexual health information for parents 7–10 (DOCX 61.7 KB)
The Controversial issues in schools policy and procedures provide further details.