South Australian students are calling for access to respectful, age-appropriate education and support around sexual and reproductive health. It’s time for leaders to listen and act.

We are calling on South Australia's:

• Minister for Education and Minister for Health and Wellbeing

• Principals of South Australian public, independent, and Catholic schools

• Leaders and governing bodies of Catholic and independent schools

• Receives accurate, age-appropriate education that supports students' understanding of their bodies, relationships and wellbeing

• Has access to the support services they need to make informed, respectful, and safe choices about their bodies and wellbeing

Background

South Australian students across a wide range of schools have said that they want to better understand their bodies, relationships, and health.

Many young people feel uncertain or ill-informed about where and when they can seek help. The South Australian Student Representative Council (SASRC) believes that schools play a key role in shaping healthy views around sexual and reproductive health and relationships.

We have heard that:

• Many students find it hard to access clear and trustworthy information about their sexual and reproductive health and relationships.

• Some have learnt little about these topics at school.

• Some students don't know where to go for support.

• Many young people feel uncomfortable or unsure how to ask questions in a safe, respectful environment.

We, the undersigned, believe that young people at every stage of their development deserve access to age-appropriate information and supportive services that help them understand their bodies, their sexual and reproductive health, build healthy relationships, and make respectful, informed, and safe choices that promote their wellbeing.

What are we asking for?

The SA SRC is seeking your support to call on decision makers to provide students with the education, guidance, and care they need.

We are asking for your support to call for:

1. Age-appropriate, respectful, and values-based education about topics including personal development, respectful relationships, reproductive health, and decision making.

2. The involvement of students as partners in the design of education programs, to ensure learning is relevant and meaningful.

3. Ensuring that students know where to find reliable, youth-friendly health information and services.

4. Providing teachers with training and resources to enable them to confidently guide lessons and discussions in ways that align with individual school values.

5. Creating school cultures where students feel safe to ask questions and seek help when needed.

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