The recommended time allocation for SPHE is one class period per week or equivalent.
Through participating in the SPHE programme the young person will encounter a wide
range of issues through a variety of learning experiences. These issues will be
addressed in ten modules, each of which appears in each year of the three-year cycle.
The emphasis will be on building skills, understanding, attitudes and values important
in all these areas.
Developing and enhancing group skills and communication skills. Learning to plan
personal and group goals and targets. Examining the dynamics of family relationships
and understanding individual responsibilities as a member of the school community.
Identifying consequences and types of loss. Recognising bullying and being aware
of school policy. Identifying staff for help.
Reviewing effective work and study practices including organising homework, personal
work schedules and study skills. Increasing awareness of personal strengths and
weaknesses. Understanding the importance of teamwork and identifying sources of
personal support.
Practising the skills of listening and selfâexpression. Being sensitive to the opinion
of others. Learning and using appropriate communication. Learning the skills appropriate
to conflict resolution. Understanding different types of communication.
Learning the importance of personal hygiene. Exploring the meaning of a balanced
diet and physical exercise for general health and well being. Examining eating patterns
and personal exercise. Looking at the symptoms of common ailments. Being aware of
occasions when help may be needed.
Defining the nature and characteristics of good friendships. Changing friendships
and the impact of gender of friendships. Relationships between siblings. Identifying
and developing skills for dealing with bullying behaviour.
In planning for the RSE module individual schools will be guided by its RSE policy
which will have been prepared in consultation with parents, teachers and management
authorities.
This module is designed to develop communication and decision making skills in relationships.
To look at the causes of conflict in relationships. Explore some aspect of sex stereotyping.
Give young people knowledge of the physical, emotional and psychological changes
related to adolescence. Have a clear understanding of male and female reproductive
systems and the development stages from conception to birth. To emphasise the three
'R's, respect, rights and responsibility.
Recognising the common moods and feelings in adolescence and respecting the feeling
of others. Looking at issues of body image and selfâconfidence. Appreciating stress
and the consequences of stress. Developing skills for expressing feelings.
Evaluating some of the strongest influences on attitude and behaviour and heightening
awareness of who influences them and why. Learning to respect the individuality
and uniqueness of each person. Learning skills to make and apply decisions. Thinking
ahead.
Examining the use and misuse of medicines and drugs. Examine ways of avoiding smoking.
Implication of alcohol use and patterns of alcohol use in Ireland. Effects of drug
use.
Examine ways of keeping safe, road safety, fire drills. Exploring potential Hazards
travelling to and from school. Looking at areas where they might be at risk of attack,
assault, abuse, intimidation or where their personal safety might be threatened.
Sources of crisis support such as help agencies.
The trusting relationship and the safe climate facilitated by the SPHE teacher are
paramount to the effective delivery of SPHE. Carefully selected outside speakers
can complement the work of the SPHE teacher but should never replace it.
for the appropriate
use of outside facilitators are adhered to.