Fewer incidents related to relationships and sexuality in education among participants in the incentive scheme

The majority of participating schools say they are satisfied with the scheme in the report. For example, 92% of schools say they have observed that pupils/students treat their own sexuality and that of others with greater respect. In addition, 38% of schools say that the atmosphere at school has improved. Most participating schools (87%) were supported by a Healthy School adviser.

Part of school policy

More than a quarter of participating schools (27%) have incorporated the topic of Relationships and sexuality into their school policy. Almost half of these schools started doing so after being awarded the incentive scheme. Furthermore, 41% of schools say they systematically address this topic in lessons, for example through themed weeks and teaching materials. In addition, 79% of schools say they have implemented a Healthy School activity focused on this topic. Almost a quarter of these schools have been doing so for several years.

“We are talking about subjects that are often considered quite difficult to discuss in an appropriate way. We see that schools are increasingly seeking tools and support to help their pupils and students with questions about relationships and sexuality. And the great thing about this evaluation is that participating schools are telling us that a scheme like this really does help,” says Mariken Leurs, head of the RIVM Centre for Health and Society.

Healthy School programme

The Healthy Relationships & Sexuality incentive scheme is available to schools in primary, special and secondary education, as well as vocational education. Schools use the funding to give a boost to addressing the topic of Relationships and sexuality through the Healthy School approach. The incentive scheme is supported in part by Rutgers, Stichting School en Veiligheid, Soa Aids Nederland and Siriz, and is offered as part of the Healthy School programme. This programme is a unique collaboration between the PO-Raad, VO-raad, MBO Raad, GGD GHOR Nederland and RIVM. It helps education professionals make a healthy lifestyle at school the norm.