Effective school-based sex education

Sex education in schools can be an important and effective means of increasing young people's knowledge, attitudes and behavior. It is generally accepted that formal education should include sex education and what works is well documented. Evidence suggests that effective school programs include the following:

Emphasis on reducing risk behaviors

Base of the theories that explain what influences people's decisions and sexual behavior

A clear and constantly reinforced on sexual behavior and risk reduction

To give correct information, the risks associated with sexual activity, contraception and birth control, and methods to avoid or postpone sexual intercourse

Handling peer and other social pressures on young people, providing opportunities to practice communication skills, negotiation and affirmation

Use a variety of approaches to teaching and learning, which is to involve young people and help them to change the information

Approaches to user education and learning that are relevant to young age, experience and cultural background

It is provided by people who believe in what they say and have access to aid in the form of training or consultation with the other sex educators

Formal programs in all of these elements have been shown to increase levels of knowledge of young people on sex and sexuality, putting the average age at which they first have intercourse, and reduce the risk when they have sex.

In addition, effective sex education supported by links to other sexual health services and to take into account the values ​​and messages of sexual behavior, young people receive from other sources (such as friends and the media). It 'also to meet the needs of young people themselves - if they are girls or boys, alone, or same-sex or mixed sex group, and what you already know, the age and experience.

In 2010, Britain has lost a great opportunity to introduce structured, sex and relationship education compulsory in all state schools in England. The measure, regarded by many as a controversial issue, was designed by the government to guarantee 15 years of age will receive sex education. Labor Secretary of State for Children, Schools and Families, Ed Balls MP, described as disappointed by the fact that political opponents "could not agree to do satutory personal education, health and social care."