What pupils gain
All workshops are highly interactive, and students are encouraged to ask questions anonymously, supporting open and honest discussion. The programme helps students to:
- Understand healthy and unhealthy relationships
- Learn skills for managing conflict
- Explore consent and boundaries
- Understand the impact of family and online life
- Access clear, factual information about sexual health
How the session is structured
The students themselves decide the topics they would like to see discussed, but these will always include modules on anatomy and sexual health. Facilitators will address every issue raised in a respectful, open, fair and honest way. Here are some of the topics most frequently suggested by students.
How to recognise and deal with abusive relationships
There has been a worrying increase in the number of teenagers experiencing abuse in their peer-to-peer relationships. Our facilitators can equip them to recognise the problem and remove themselves from what can be a dangerous situation.
Expectations of relationships, including sexual relationships
Consent is now a major part of class discussions for all ages in secondary school. But we also explore many other aspects of relationships, from emotional problems (including caused by family or friends), the effects of alcohol/drugs on relationships, and the effects of pornography and sexting to unhealthy or ‘toxic’ relationships, the pressures of social media, and LGBT+ relationships.
Family issues
Family issues can be one of the major sources of stress for young people. We examine styles of conflict, helping students identify their own style and exploring how to manage conflict in relationships.
Unplanned pregnancy
An unplanned pregnancy raises lots of questions about the future for both the mother and the father. We help young people think through some of the questions.
Sexually transmitted infections
We provide clear, accurate scientific information that’s easily digestible, so young people understand what sexually transmitted infections are and their effects.
Learning from student feedback
At the end, students complete an evaluation form. This is anonymous to encourage an honest response. Normally, the response is consistently positive, especially around how the programme is delivered and how open discussion is facilitated.
Parent assurance
All content is age-appropriate, delivered with care, and aligned with best practice and the Irish curriculum.