School programs

Supporting the healthy sexual development of children and young people is a responsibility shared by schools and families. As defined by UNESCO, "Comprehensive sexuality education (CSE) is a curriculum-based process of teaching and learning about the cognitive, emotional, physical and social aspects of sexuality. It aims to equip children and young people with knowledge, skills, attitudes and values that will empower them to: realize their health, well-being and dignity; develop respectful social and sexual relationships; consider how their choices affect their own well-being and that of others; and understand and ensure the protection of their rights throughout their lives." (p.16).1

CSE programs are a trusted source of information and there are many benefits of children and young people participating in CSE programs. These include:

• Laying the foundations for healthy, positive attitudes about sex and relationships
• Influence behaviours that lead to decrease in unplanned pregnancy and STIs
• Support development of knowledge and skills to interact safely and positively online
• Lead to a decrease in sexual abuse
• Decrease in homophobia and transphobia
• Critical thinking about social contractions of gender
• Critical analysis of online content including popular media, social media and pornography

True's signature All School CSE program, has been developed specifically to meet all requirements for Queensland schools and are mapped to the Australian National Curriculum, and aligned to the Queensland Curriculum and Assessment Authority (QCAA) senior syllabus. True's approach to education involves respectful facilitation, free of discrimination and accepting of diversity.

True's position on CSE is reflected by the Family Planning Alliance Australia (FPAA) COMPREHENSIVE SEXUALITY EDUCATION FOR SCHOOL-AGED YOUNG PEOPLE Position Statement. For more information about FPAA, visit www.familyplanningallianceaustralia.org.au