Working in Schools policy

Aim of this policy

This document is designed to suggest ways in which we can work together most constructively to ensure the success of Talk About Choice workshops in your school.

Our aims and values

Education For Choice was established in 1992 in response to the demand from schools and young people for unbiased information and speakers on unplanned pregnancy and abortion. It is a national charity with funding from charitable and statutory bodies.

EFC aims to reach as many young people as possible who might otherwise have no access to accurate information on abortion. We aim to enable young people to think and talk about the choices that might lead to and result from an unplanned pregnancy, to demystify the issues and to equip them to seek help and make healthy decisions.

We believe that:

• Abortion is a morally acceptable choice for a woman faced with an unwanted pregnancy.
• Open discussion of sex and relationships appropriate to their age (backed up by up to date, accurate and unbiased information) is an entitlement for young people and essential to their sexual and emotional health.

What we need when you book a talk

• As much notice as possible.
• The request to be confirmed in writing.
• A copy of the school’s sex education policy.
• A named contact within the school to take responsibility for liaison.
• A copy of the school’s child protection policy.
• A map/directions of how to reach the school.

What we need to know in order to prepare for sessions

• The age of the students, size and needs of the group.
• What teaching the students have already received on abortion and related subjects (conception, contraception, STIs).
• How this lesson/workshop will fit into their term’s work.
• What information the students would like (this could be assessed in advance by collecting and forwarding to us students’ anonymous questions or encouraging them to email them directly to us in advance of the workshop).
• What resources are available for use by our facilitators (OHP, video, whiteboard, flipchart etc).
• Notify us in good time of any changes/cancellation.

What your teacher needs to do

• Meet our facilitator 10 minutes before the workshop in the school reception or other agreed place.
• Remain in the room and ensure a reasonable level of discipline within the class.
• Maintain an observing role unless asked to intervene by the facilitator before or during the session.
• Fill in evaluation forms/give feedback as appropriate.

What Education For Choice will do

• Take up references for its facilitators.
• Try to accommodate your workshop needs wherever possible/appropriate.
• Liaise with the named teacher in good time to confirm details of the session.
• Ask facilitators to arrive at school at least 10 minutes before the workshop.
• Discourage discussion of private information in the classroom.
• Follow the school child protection procedures in the event of a disclosure.
• Offer students the opportunity to give feedback on sessions or ask for further information via email.
• Help to plan and prepare resources and/or follow up lessons for teachers in the school when asked.
• Give good notice of cancellation.