Why Respectful Relationships and Consent Education matters
Schools are where children learn to interact with others respectfully. Respectful relationships and consent education (RRCE) helps students understand that no one should be disrespected or abused. RRCE helps develop the skills children and young people need to have respectful relationships as they grow.
From a young age, children start to believe there are reasons and situations that make disrespectful behaviour acceptable. Even seemingly innocent remarks or actions can be misinterpreted as condoning or excusing disrespectful or violent behaviour.
The Australian Government’s Respect campaign aims to help families and communities to build respectful relationships.
The cycle of violence begins with disrespectful behaviour. While not all disrespect towards women leads to violence, all violence against women starts with disrespect.
What is Respectful Relationships and Consent Education?
RRCE focuses on developing the knowledge, skills and understanding students need to interact positively and respectfully in different social situations.
It promotes gender equity and challenges stereotypes to ensure all relationships are based on mutual respect, with the aim to reduce gender-based and family violence.
When teaching RRCE, students learn to:
- Build healthy friendships and relationships
- Communicate well with others
- Keep safe and recognise unsafe situations
- Solve problems without violence
- Respect themselves and others
- Understand and promote respect and gender equality
Nurse Nettie, in consultation with Mrs Simpson, will begin RRCE this term with our Prep – Grade 2 students. The Teaching and Learning package has been created by the Department for Children and Young People. All content is delivered in a developmentally appropriate way using suitable resources. You can view the curriculum here:
Teaching and Learning - Respectful Relationships | Bullying Stops Here