The NSPCC has launched a set of resources to help guide teachers answer sensitive questions about sexual relations
(Picture: PA Wire)Almost half of secondary school teachers in London and the South-East do not feel confident teaching sex and relationships education, new research suggests.
An NSPCC survey of school staff found that many teachers do not feel confident answering “difficult or sensitive” questions in lessons or teaching abut consent, harmful sexual behaviour and pornography.
The poll comes in the wake of the Everyone’s Invited movement, which saw thousands of people sharing stories about rape culture in schools, and teachers coming under pressure to discuss the issues with pupils.
Maria Neophytou, NSPCC director of strategy, said: “Following on from the thousands of testimonies off the back of the Everyone’s Invited movement, it’s clear that this education is now more important than ever before.”
Relationships and Sex Education has been compulsory in secondary schools since last summer. But the NSPCC said teachers want better support and called on Education Secretary Kit Malthouse to prioritise guidance and training about sex and relationships education.
Ms Neophytou said: “Sex and relationships education is vital for young people as it helps them understand the difference between healthy and unhealthy relationships.”
It comes as the NSPCC today launched a new service to support teachers called Talk Relationships, which includes 14 lesson plans and a helpline for teachers.
