In March, the Government published its latest statistics on 'teenage pregnancy'. Rates are slowly going down, but the UK still has the highest rates in Western Europe and has a long way to go to catch up with its neighbours. Sexually transmitted infections (STIs), however, are on the increase and young people are the group most at risk. They are especially vulnerable to chlamydia, the often symptom-less STI that can lead to infertility. Many young people have their first sexual experiences whilst drunk, making them less likely to use protection and more likely to regret the experience.

Where are we going wrong?
Well, we know young people's sexual health is better in countries where it is talked about in an open sensible manner. And where it has been made a top priority by the government, by parents, by schools and by the media, STI and teenage pregnancy rates are much lower.

Not just 'the birds and the bees'
Schools in these countries, like Holland, have to teach comprehensive programmes of sex and relationships education (SRE). These programmes explore more than just 'the birds and the bees'. They teach about sexual relationships within an emotional and social context including topics such as love, empathy and responsibility. They start early and give young people the information and skills they need to make healthy, safe choices throughout their lives. They also help them to develop a positive attitude to their own and their future partners' sexual health.

Rights of schoolchildren not being met
The way we approach young people's sexual health in England is very different. Schools are only obliged to teach the basic biological facts of 'where babies come from', contraception and STIs. When it comes to topics like understanding relationships, emotions, sexuality, gender issues, risks, how to be safe, getting help and pregnancy choices, each school can chose whether or not they are taught. Recent schools inspections showed that SRE is 'patchy' and while some schools are doing a great job, others may not be, meaning that not all young people are getting the information and support they need or have the right to.

What can be done?
Well, the Government could make SRE, which in schools is taught as part of personal, social and health education, compulsory. This will ensure all schools prioritise the subject just like Citizenship or ICT. It will also mean that teachers are properly trained, giving them the confidence and skills to teach about sex and relationships without going red in the face.

Will it ever become compulsory? There is a growing consensus amongst professionals, young people and parents that it should and they are putting pressure on Government to see this happen. Perhaps if their voices are loud enough we may see some positive changes in schools and also in young people's sexual and reproductive health.

For more information visit www.ncb.org.uk/sef