Sex & Relationships
Underage pregnancies and sexually transmitted infections (STIs) arise as a consequence of ignorance, belief in myths, peer/friend pressures and, not infrequently, are due to behaviour stimulated by alcohol and drugs. They are not an outcome of curriculum sex education.
Unwanted pregnancy potentially destroys a teenager's education, future fulfillment and happiness. STIs can lead to a lifetime of ill-health and often to infertility.
Curriculum sex education as generally taught largely concerns itself with the mechanics and biology of reproduction. Most teachers, like many parents, are wary of getting into much discussion of sex in the context of relationships. As outsiders, Learning Through Action team members can broach such subjects, whether through role play or interactive dialogue, without any embarrassment. Through the vehicle of role play and consequent exchanges, myths and misinterpretations of the 'facts of life' are revealed and can be readily corrected.
The age of LTA's 'gap-year' presenters - and students' assumption that 'these guys know what life's like for us' - makes for remarkably frank and constructive exchanges. The workshops described below are highly effective in securing inclusive and meaningful participation. They encourage informed thinking and discussion about the issues that are addressed. Issues that are vital to the health and future happiness of all young people.
Workshops for Ages 4 to 10+
This active learning workshop is intended for young people on the threshold of puberty, eg in the last two years of primary school. Teachers and other observers are not only surprised at the level of sexual knowledge demonstrated by the young students in exchanges (hence our title), but also by the level of misunderstanding and the erroneous beliefs (or fears) often displayed. Content and methodology is carefully designed appropriate to the age and ability of the participants.
Workshops for Ages 11 to 18+
Many teachers have said to us, after observing a session of this highly participatory workshop: "I wish I'd had the benefit of this experience, when I was at school." Which perhaps says all that really needs to be said. The workshop picks up where most curriculum sex education leaves off. It looks at 'sex ed' in the context of relationships, checks on understanding, corrects misapprehensions. Shoots down myths. All in the context of the vital importance for everyone of thinking through the issues, considering principles – and then "Making Choices" – right choices, informed choices – for themselves.
