Statement of evidence

For sexuality and sexual health education to be successfully delivered, the support of staff, community, parents and students is essential.

A sense of community and inclusion promotes feelings of belonging and connectedness in all young people, families and staff. This has shown to have a positive effect on the health and wellbeing of children and young people. This emphasises the importance of an inclusive, whole-school approach with an emphasis on positive relationships for the benefit of the school community.

There are many misconceptions about what students learn about and how students learn in sexuality education. Communication with parents and carers assists the community to better understand the content and aims of the programs.

Research suggests that, where parents or caregivers have an understanding of the rationale, structure and content of school programs, students’ learning is improved. Schools should implement a consultative process to ensure parents and carers have the opportunity to participate in purposeful discussions on program aims, curriculum content and teaching and learning materials where appropriate to ascertain whether parts of the program need to be modified.

Where appropriate, schools can support parents and carers by providing them with current information about a wide range of sexuality and sexual health issues. Schools working in partnerships with parents and carers can also dispel some of the anxiety parents may experience from an expectation that sexuality and sexual health education is their sole responsibility.

Working in partnership with health and community services increases students’ awareness of the range of services available and where to find them. This can assist in building students’ trust and confidence to access services and provide links between young people, the school and appropriate services.

Community services can also be used to enhance staff knowledge and understanding of relevant contexts and consequently assist in building the capacity of teachers to deliver effective education programs.