Homophobia and the curriculum
Personal, Social and Health Education
(PSHE)
The framework for Personal, Social and Health Education (PSHE) and
Citizenship aims to help pupils learn to understand and respect diversity and
differences. It enables schools to teach them to recognise the effects of
stereotyping, prejudice and discrimination of any kind, for example racial,
gender or sexual, and to develop the skills to challenge discrimination
assertively.
The PSHE framework for teaching outlines which subjects should be taught at which Key Stage:
- Key Stage 1: there are different types of teasing and bullying; bullying is wrong; how to get help with bullying
- Key stage 2: realise the nature and consequences of anti-social and aggressive behaviours, such as bullying and racism; recognise and challenge stereotypes
- Key stage 3: the effects of all types of stereotyping, prejudice, bullying and racism; how to challenge them assertively
- Key stage 4: how to challenge offending behaviour, prejudice, bullying, racism and discrimination assertively and take the initiative in giving and receiving support
TeacherNet's PSHE section gives information about a range of other sources of advice and guidance.
Sex and relationship education
(SRE)
Sex and relationship education (SRE) teaches young people to
understand human sexuality and to respect themselves and others. It enables
young people to mature, to build up their confidence and self-esteem and
understand the reasons for delaying sexual activity. It is not about the
promotion of sexual orientation or sexual activity.
Sex and Relationship Education Guidance sent to all schools in July 2000 makes clear that schools should ensure that the needs of all pupils are met. Young people, whatever their developing sexuality, need to feel that sex and relationship education is relevant to them and sensitive to their needs. The guidance also makes clear that teachers should be able to deal honestly and sensitively with sexual orientation, answer appropriate questions and offer support.
The Department's PSHE site has information about all sources of advice and guidance.
