More non-Government schools have signed up to the Department of Education and Training’s Respectful Relationships program, to support educators to embed respect and gender equality in their school communities.
Minister for Education, James Merlino said a further 78 Catholic and independent schools across Victoria would implement the Department’s Program across their whole schools.
“The Program has already been implemented in all Government schools and this new intake means 384 non-Government schools have chosen to implement Respectful Relationships, bringing the total up to 1,951 schools across Victoria now delivering this vital education program,” Mr Merlino said.
“Respectful Relationships doesn’t just provide vital consent education – it teaches young people how to build healthy relationships and confidence – and we’re thrilled to see more non-Government schools implementing the Program,” he said.
“We know that attitudes on gender equality are formed young – and this key recommendation from the Royal Commission into Family Violence will ensure all Victorian kids develop good attitudes towards inclusion and diversity.”
Mr Merlino said the Program helped schools promote respect, positive attitudes and behaviours in all aspects of their culture, including the classroom; the playground; the staff room; and the broader school community.
The Minister said that since Term Two this year, the teaching of consent in a sensitive and age-appropriate way had been mandatory in all Government schools.
