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Sexuality education in Ireland

SHAPE classifies the sexuality education framework in Ireland as progressive. This describes the national policy framework, not how every school delivers it.

Progressive framework

Last checked 14/09/2026 · This is information only, not advice or a recommendation.

  • National framework: Relationships and Sexuality Education is mandatory within primary and post-primary curricula, although opt-out provisions and school-level implementation differences remain.
  • Interpretation: The status summarizes the verified policy framework; it does not guarantee uniform classroom delivery.

[Sources: https://www.unesco.org/gem-report/en/peer ; https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/comprehensive-sexuality-education ; https://www.bzga-whocc.de/fileadmin/user_upload/Dokumente/BZgA_IPPFEN_ComprehensiveStudyReport_Online.pdf]

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Based on public, cited sources and SHAPE's review. Rules and prices change, so please confirm with the national authority or a professional. Found an error? Tell us.