Issues

Identifying the ways in which different issues will be addressed

A comprehensive approach is adopted to the social, personal and health development of the child, focusing on a framework of attitudes, values, skills and understanding that the children will need and will inform them in a variety of situations. Issues such as racism, bullying, substance abuse and bereavement will be dealt with as part of the SPHE programme.

Exploring how the content can be implemented in the different classes

In the short-term, RSE for 5th and 6th Classes will be facilitated by ACCORD until the pupils in the other classes have encountered the RSE programme for these classes.

Inviting speakers to the school

This matter will be addressed each year at the first staff meeting. If it is decided to focus on a particular element of the SPHE programme, then the question of inviting speakers to the school will be examined. Parents will be made aware if an speaker is being invited to the school.

Implementing whole school themes

Themes such as safety, hygiene, healthy eating and environmental care will be highlighted at particular times of the year in every class.

Amount of time to be devoted to SPHE

In the overall planning, time relates to the achievement of the chosen objectives and not on the number of hours devoted to the programme. The minimum amount of formal time to be devoted to the teaching of SPHE is ½ hour per week. With specific reference to RSE, the programme is to be taught through a number of time-tabled core periods with the remainder being taught in an integrated manner. RSE will be taught between 12.00 and 12.30 p.m. in nine ½ sessions throughout the year. These sessions may be divided into 3 per term or taught in nine consecutive weeks.

Identifying support and resources for SPHE

Planning for the SPHE curriculum involves identifying and enlisting the support of different groups or individuals in the community. For example, a garda, nurse, doctor, vet or fire fighter could visit the school to work with the teachers and to reinforce what has already been taught.

There are many special focus programmes available such as the prevention of substance abuse, consumer education, the prevention of child abuse, celebrating difference, healthy eating and relationships and sexuality education. Care will be taken to ensure that if these special focus programmes are used in our school, they will comply with the principles of the SPHE curriculum.

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