We're excited to announce the upcoming health talks for Grade 6 to 12 students, led by certified Sexual Health Educator, Carlie McPhee from The Whole SHEbang. These sessions, scheduled from February 20 to March 1st, are designed to not only meet the requirements of the B.C. Ministry of Education Physical and Health Education (PHE) curriculum and the Science curriculum, but also to address critical aspects of sexual health and well-being.
During these talks, our aim is to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of sexual health that follows curriculum objectives while adhering to Canadian guidelines. We believe in empowering students to manage their sexual health journey confidently, by equipping them with practical knowledge tailored to their needs. Additionally, we'll be addressing online risks related to sexual health, body image, and self-esteem, recognizing their significance in shaping healthy attitudes and behaviours.
Furthermore, we are committed to integrating the SOGI 123 guidelines into our discussions, acknowledging the existence of diverse gender and sexual identities. By fostering an inclusive environment, we aim to promote understanding and respect among our students.
We encourage parents to engage in conversations with your children about the topics covered during these sessions, emphasizing the importance of open communication and informed decision-making.
Below is a brief overview on what to expect in each grade levels health talk:
Grade 6/7
- Sexual consent in the context of sexual relationships
- Smart decision making online (cyber bullying, sexting, sextortion, porn)
- Thinking critically about gender stereotypes
- Emotional, social and physical factors in sexual decision making
- Basic STI information with brief condom explanation (do demonstration)
- Question box (student can anonymously ask questions)
Grade 8
- Part 1 - Safe Sex
- Basic decision making tool – head, heart, body
- STIs – transmission, testing, treatment, prevention (condom demonstration)
- Contraception – pregnancy, birth control options, birth control access
- Part 2 - Health Relationships
- Recognize indicators of healthy, unhealthy, abusive relationships (power imbalances, abuse of authority)
- Consent
- Coping strategies for navigating relationships
- Question box (student can anonymously ask questions)
Grade 9
- Part 1 – Safer Sex
- Detailed decision making matrix – physical, emotional, social, legal
- STIs – transmission, testing, treatment, prevention (condom demonstrations)
- Contraception – pregnancy, birth control options, birth control access
- Part 2 – Boundaries & Consent
- Recognize indicators of healthy, unhealthy, abusive relationships
- Recognizing & setting boundaries
- Respecting boundaries (consent)
- Problem solving for unhealthy relationships
- Question box (student can anonymously ask questions)
Grade 10
- Part 1 – Self Care & Healthy Sexuality
- Define healthy sexuality & explore influences (media, pornography, stereotypes)
- Physical care – STIs, pregnancy and contraception, cancer screens, accessing care
- Consent
- Emotional and social care
- Part 2 – Relationships & Negotiation
- Recognize indicators of healthy, unhealthy, abusive relationships
- Recognizing & setting boundaries – DNR scenarios
- Respecting boundaries (resiliency) – scenarios
- Break ups – strategies & coping
- Question box (student can anonymously ask questions)
Grade 11/12
- Part 1 – Self Care & Healthy Sexuality
- Define healthy sexuality & explore influences (media, pornography, stereotypes)
- Physical care – STIs, contraception, cancer screens, accessing care, vaccinations (HPV, Hep B)
- Local clinic access
- Part 2 - Relationships & Negotiation
- Personal decision making framework
- Consent
- Healthy relationships & problem solving
- Question box (student can anonymously ask questions)
