Did you have any sex education in school? Was it comprehensive enough?
Yes, we started sex education when I was 11 but it wasn’t as detailed as when I was 15. The teachers gave us information on protection but did not provide any examples. Kristina Saliba, Bachelors in Communications with Knowledge and Information Management, 2nd year.
I barely remember there being any sex education at primary or secondary, especially since I went to a Church secondary school. It was limited to illustrations and diagrams of the genital organs, and everything being explained very scientifically and technically. Johann Agius, Bachelor of Laws, 4th year.
Coming from a Church school, I don’t really remember having specific sex education. Looking back I don’t think it was comprehensive enough. It is important for children to have sex education at school in the right way. Alessia Mizzi, Bachelor of Communications (Hons) with Psychology, 3rd year.
At what age should sex education be introduced?
Sex education should be introduced at primary level as many young people are becoming parents at a very young age. Kristina Saliba
It should be introduced gradually from primary school. But it would need to be adapted accordingly, ensuring that children start learning early on but in a way that is appropriate to their age and mindset. Johann Agius
It should be introduced at an early age especially since some children go through puberty as early as 10, so they should be well informed. Also, many teenagers are becoming sexually active at a young age so ideally sex education should be taught well in schools, rather than end up exploring things on their own. Alessia Mizzi
Should parents be consulted before giving students sex education?
They should be notified beforehand, but parents are responsible to educate their children on this subject first hand. Kristina Saliba
Parents should be informed before sex education is delivered, and there should be a process of discussion and consultation. Johann Agius
Parents should be consulted not to grant permission, but to be prepared and work with the school, in order for the children to be well educated on this topic. Alessia Mizzi
Compiled by Insite – the media students organisation.