Long before the digital age, it was compulsory for most educational institution to include in their school curriculum to have sex education. This is implemented as early as secondary level. Teachers focused on the reproductive system. The parts of the body and the process of getting pregnant. Along with the education teachers carefully explains birth control, contraceptives and heterosexual relationship. Over the years the subject has not progressed thus it needs a lot of updates since in this digital age most young people think differently while some do not know about SRE (Sex and Relationship Education).
Just recently the Terrence Higgins Trust conducted a survey about sex and relationship. Participants ranged from ages 16-25 years old. The organization found out that most of them have not received any sex education or sexual approval while others aren't taught about LGBT relationship at all. The irregular teachings of sex education from most schools brought "safeguarding crisis", for young generations. The study and research are called "Shh...No Talking". And it was informed that "SRE" is not applicable in this digital age generation resulting to bullying and lack of mental and sexual health.
According to Ian Green, Terrence Higgins Trust Chief Executive, "In this report, we've seen the stark reality of SRE in this country and heard saddening stories of how one generation of young people have been exposed to low self-esteem, homophobia, bullying, unhealthy relationships and poor sexual health as a result of the lack of quality SRE in our schools." He adds, "The government's quiet blocking of compulsory SRE will condemn another generation of young people to leave school armed with little to no information on issues like LGBT relationships, gender identity and consent.Without trusted information from schools on anything other than the biological basics of heterosexual sex, young people will turn to less reliable sources such as the internet or their peers as they navigate life outside the classroom."
Last February the Government declined the teachings of SRE in schools despite the request of the faculty members, parents and young citizens themselves. Today SRE is only allowed in selected secondary schools which is 40% of educational institution and it's not permitted in private, primary ore free schools. "Young people are getting information about sex and relationships in a world before social media existed, before smartphones, before the equal marriage or civil partnerships," "It is wholly unfit to prepare them for the realities of sex and relationships in 2016." Green explains
Assistant Headteacher and director of sixth form at Saint Cecilia's school in Wandsworth, south-west London, Paul Bishop emphasize that "It seems everyone thinks SRE is someone else's job. The result is an information vacuum which leaves children and young people reliant on inaccurate or unrealistic depictions of sex and relationships from alternative sources, such as their peer groups and social networks."
However, the Department of Education shared their sentiments regarding the matter. "High quality sex and relationship education (SRE) is a vital part of preparing young people for life in modern Britain - helping them make informed choices, stay safe and learn to respect themselves and others. Our guidance is clear that young people, whatever their sexuality, need to feel that sex and relationships education is relevant to them and sensitive to their needs."
"We also expect all school to deliver PSHE to a high standard. We know that the vast majority of schools and teachers recognise the importance of PSHE, and trust teachers to tailor their lessons to best suit their pupils. We are focusing on raising the quality of PSHE teaching and working with leading headteachers and practitioners to look at how best to achieve this." DOE spoke person said.
