You will recall from the SCES newsletter in August that we highlighted the current consultation regarding a revision to the 2014 Guidance on RSHP (relationships, Sexual Health and Parenting). There are several areas of this guidance that raise significant questions, in particular the fact that the paragraphs dedicated to Denominational Education have been removed. The Bishops’ Conference has made the following statement: “The Bishops’ Conference of Scotland is both disappointed and confused at the decision by the Scottish Government to delete all reference to Catholic schools in its :Guidance on the Delivery of Relationships, Sexual Health and Parenthood (RSHP) Education in Scottish Schools” document. We strongly request the re-insertion of the paragraphs relating to Denominational Education from the previous iteration of the guidance, which would reflect both the legal protection for schools with a Religious Character, and the previously supportive position of Scottish Government for Catholic schools. It is vitally important that the Catholic Education Community has a strong and united voice in responding to this consultation, requesting the same action as the Bishops, so as to ensure that our sector is represented and our views heard. A voluminous response to this consultation by the Catholic Education community is necessary before the closing date of the 23rd November and we are asking for your help in achieving this. HOW TO RESPOND: You can read the revised document here: Delivery of relationships, sexual health and parenthood education in Scottish schools: draft guidance - gov.scot (www.gov.scot) THEN TO RESPOND ONLINE: • Follow this link and complete the consultation online using the skeleton responses in the attached WORD document. • You can cut and paste these, changing any of the content to best suit your individual response. • Note you do NOT need to answer every question. However, Questions 1 and 6 are vital. • You MUST complete the RESPONDENT INFORMATION FORM. OR TO RESPOND BY POST: Open the letter template provided. 3 papers to assist in responding are available on our Parish web. • Change any content by typing on the Word document – including your name and address. • Note you do NOT need to answer every question. However, Questions 1 and 6 are vital. • Print your final document. • Please note that you MUST print and complete the first page the RESPONDENT INFORMATION FORM and include this with any posted responses. • Post responses to: RSHP Teaching Guidance Consultation, Area 2B, North Victoria Quay, EDINBURGH EH6 6QQ ***Posted responses must reach Scottish Government by 23rd November. We therefore recommend posting by Monday 20th*** Barbara Coupar, Director, Scottish Catholic Education Service, 75 Craigpark, Glasgow G31 2HD T :0141 556 4727 F: 0141 551 8467 Web: sces.org.uk