RSE Policy
Code of Good Practice, Child Protection for the Youth Work Sector (2003)
The publication in 1999, of Children First, National Guidelines for the Protection and Welfare of Children, charged each and every organisation, whether statutory or voluntary, providing services to children, to produce a child protection policy tailored to their specific needs. While this policy is not covered by legislation, nevertheless the provision of guidelines is the responsibility of each organisation. The policy should include procedures within the organisation if a child reports that they:
- have had sexual intercourse.
- have symptoms of an STI.
- are pregnant.
- have been sexually assaulted or raped.
In response to this, the Minister of Youth Affairs undertook a consultation with the youth sector on the Children First guidelines and how they relate to youth workers. This Code of Good Practice aims to assist and give direction and guidance to youth workers and youth work organisations/groups inprotecting the children and young people under their care and in dealing with allegations or suspicions of child abuse.
RSE Policy in Schools
All schools are required to develop an RSE policy through a consultative process involving parents, teachers, Boards of Management and, where appropriate, students.
RSE is part of the SPHE programme from junior infants to third year in Post-Primary School. Schools are still required to teach RSE at Senior Cycle, even though the SPHE curriculum for senior cycle is still in development.
Developing a Policy
The following document may be of assistance in developing an RSE policy in your school.
Guidelines for Developing an RSE Policy.
For more documentation on the delivery of RSE visit the RSE Support Service Website.
Regional Development Officers are available to assist schools with policy development. Contact the SPHE support service www.sphe.ie for details.
Child Protection Guidelines for Post-Primary Schools
These guidelines, published by the Department of Education and Science in 2004, are based on the Children First guidelines and outline the responsibilities of all school personnel in dealing with underage sexual activity, child abuse, peer abuse and bullying. The Drumcondra Education Centre organises child protection training for Designated Liaison Persons in Post Primary schools.
