A new Social, Personal, and Health Education curriculum (SPHE) was introduced in September 2023 for all first-year students.

Over the three years of Junior Cycle, students will learn a variety of skills. These include how to communicate respectfully and effectively, understanding the importance of setting healthy boundaries, and recognising the effects of stress and how to manage it. They will also learn about the dangers of alcohol, smoking, and other addictive substances.

More than 4,000 parents, along with students and teachers, were involved in a consultation about this new curriculum.

The Department of Education has published information on the programme which can be viewed HERE

Parents or guardians can opt their children out of classes if they feel the content conflicts with their personal beliefs. They can do so by speaking with their local school.

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