#194 Do You Support Inclusive Sex Education In Schools?

The Niall Boylan Podcast (They Told Me To Shut Up)

In this episode, Niall explores the topic of inclusive sex education in schools, prompted by proposed changes to the primary school curriculum that aim to teach relationships and sex education at an earlier stage.

Niall presents contrasting viewpoints on the matter from the draft curriculum and various advocacy groups. The proposed curriculum emphasizes teaching about human development, sexuality, and consent in a holistic manner, with a focus on fostering empathy, inclusivity, and social justice. Additionally, it includes topics such as LGBTQ+ identities, gender, and strategies for managing emotions and recognizing signs of abusive relationships.

Some callers express strong support for inclusive sex education in schools, emphasizing the importance of providing children with accurate and age-appropriate information about relationships and sexuality. They argue that such education promotes understanding, acceptance, and respect for diversity from a young age, ultimately contributing to a more inclusive and tolerant society.

Conversely, other callers voice opposition to the idea, expressing concerns about the appropriateness of discussing sensitive topics like LGBTQ+ identities and gender in schools. They argue that these discussions should be left to parents and may conflict with the values and beliefs of some families. Additionally, they emphasize the importance of prioritizing academic subjects in schools.

As the discussion unfolds, Niall navigates through these differing perspectives, highlighting the complexities and implications of inclusive sex education in schools.