Parents across New Zealand are encouraged to provide feedback on the teaching of relationships and sexuality education (RSE) in schools.

The Ministry of Education has released a draft framework for RSE, which outlines the content to be taught from Years 0 to 13.

Developed by education experts and reviewed by both internal and external professionals, the framework aims to provide age-appropriate and evidence-based lessons on relationships, consent, and sexuality.

Minister for Education, Erica Stanford, emphasised the importance of equipping young people with the knowledge and skills to navigate respectful relationships.

“Parents deserve clarity and certainty on what their children are learning in RSE, so they can make informed choices about their child’s education,” she said.

Research by the Education Review Office (ERO) revealed that many school leavers felt they lacked sufficient education on consent.

In response, the draft framework includes consent education at every year level, ensuring young people receive the tools they need to engage in safe and healthy relationships.

The consultation process is open until 9 May 2025.

Feedback gathered will help refine the broader health and physical education curriculum, which will be released for public consultation in Term 4, 2025.

Minister for Women, Nicola Grigg, reiterated the need for comprehensive relationship education to help combat sexual violence.

Minister for Women, Nicola Grigg.

“Both boys and girls need to understand healthy relationships, and we must ensure that parents are fully informed of what their children are taught in schools,” she said.

This consultation marks a critical step in ensuring that all students, regardless of their background, receive consistent, relevant, and empowering education.

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