Coronavirus (COVID19) Update

Read More

Relationships and Sexuality Education Pilot Programme

A number of ACCORD Centres  are participating in the Relationships and Sexuality Education (RSE) Pilot Programme.  Currently the RSE Programme is being offered by the following ACCORD Centres to schools in their diocese:

  • Ennis
  • Sligo
  • Tralee

The programme is three hours long and is delivered by an ACCORD facilitator over one school day. The programme complements the Social Personal and Health Education (SPHE) curriculum. Facilitators have been selected and trained by ACCORD to deliver this programme to 6th class pupils. Facilitators are Garda vetted and work in accordance with Children First: National Guidance for the Protection and Welfare of Children (2011) and Safeguarding Children, Standards and Guidance Document for the Catholic Church in Ireland ( 2009).

The aims of the programme are to:

  • Give 6th class pupils clear accurate information about the changes that take place in adolessence at a spiritual, intellectual, emotional and physical level.
  • Assist pupils in building and maintaining healthy relationships.
  • Help pupils develop a healthy positive attitude towards their own emerging sexuality and that of their fellow human beings.
  • Help pupils question what they see around them, and discern good from bad choices.

The objectives of the 6th class programme are that pupils:

  • Will receive clear, easily understood information on aspects of growing up.
  • Will feel more comfortable about their approaching adolescence.
  • Will have necessary age appropriate facts.
  • Will have a deeper understanding of their uniqueness and self worth.

The content of the programme is divided into three one hour modules:

  • 1st Module: Deals with the journey from childhood to adulthood and the changes that take place at a spiritual, intellectual, emotional, and physical level.
  • 2nd Module: Examines the pressures children can experience at this time in their development. Physical changes are discussed and conception and childbirth explained.
  • 3rd Module: Gives pupils the opportunity to reflect on the day and ask questions. They get an opportunity to write questions, which may allow quieter children to put forward a question they may find difficult to ask.

It is anticipated that having experienced the programme 6th class pupils will have a better awareness and understanding of their own sexuality, which can facilitate a positive attitude towards their development and foster their ability to form healthy relationships.

Schools interested in the programme can contact the relevant ACCORD Centre  

The cost for the programme is €165 per class payable when booking.   Schools must make parents / guardians aware of the programme and receive written permission from them for their child to attend prior to programme delivery.