FAQs

This section covers a number of questions commonly asked by parents of primary school children.
Are ACCORD’s RSE Programmes based on Catholic religious doctrine?

No. They are based on the guidelines of the Department of Education and over 25 years’ experience of delivering RSE programmes in schools of all denominations, including the incorporation of feedback from teachers and students.

What is covered in the fifth-class programme?

This programme deals with the emotional development of the child. It includes matters around self-esteem and any issues concerning relationships with friends and family. Physical development is included, which provides age appropriate information on hormone production and physical body developments. In our experience, it’s a really gentle and fun way for children to start thinking about adolescence.

Is conception, pregnancy and birth covered in the fifth-class programme?

No.

Is conception, pregnancy and birth covered in the sixth-class programme?

Yes. We discuss the scientific, biological facts of conception, pregnancy and childbirth.

How does the ACCORD Primary School Programme address homosexuality?

We encourage children to be respectful and understanding towards everyone and to treat others the way they would like to be treated themselves. If asked what it means to be gay, we say that this is when two people of the same gender fall in love with each other. We encourage inclusivity and respect.

Are ACCORD facilitators professionally qualified?

Yes. All of our facilitators are professionally trained. They receive regular Continuing Professional Development involving various external agencies and have professional supervision sessions every six weeks.

Are your facilitators Garda vetted?

Yes. All our facilitators are vetted by the National Vetting Bureau. A teacher is always present in the classroom with a facilitator.

Does the ACCORD sixth-class Programme address contraception?

No. Children in sixth class do not need this level of information. However, if a child asks ‘what is a condom?’ for example, we will say it is used by adults to prevent pregnancy and if they want any further information, we suggest that they should ask at home.