Sex & Sexual Health

Contraception

Overview

Our teaching on gives young people the information they need to make safe, informed choices — without judgement and without gaps.

The topic covers the full range of methods: barrier, hormonal, long-acting, and . How they work, how effective they are, and how to access them. It also takes in the practical side — the embarrassment of buying , the myths that circulate on social media, the pressure to rely on a partner's contraception instead of your own, and what to do when something goes wrong.

Whether a session focuses on condom use with Year 9 or on long-acting methods and access routes with sixth formers, the aim is the same: young people leave knowing not just what exists, but where to get it, how to use it, and how to have the conversation with a partner. Because knowledge without confidence is just information — and information alone doesn't prevent unintended pregnancies.

Key learning outcomes

By the end of lessons on this topic, students will:

Understand the main methods of contraception, how they work, and their relative effectiveness
Know where and how to access contraception, including free services for young people
Recognise common myths about contraception and counter them with accurate information
Develop the confidence to discuss contraception with a partner
Understand emergency contraception — what it is, when to use it, and how to access it
Learn about the dual purpose of condoms in preventing both and
Explore the barriers that stop young people accessing contraception and how to overcome them

Why teaching about contraception matters

The UK still has one of the highest rates of teenage pregnancy in Western Europe. Not because information isn't available — but when it arrives too late, too vaguely, or wrapped in awkwardness, young people switch off — and the consequences are real.

Effective contraception education is direct, honest, and practical. It doesn't assume young people are having sex, but it makes sure those who are — or who will — know exactly what their options are.

Curriculum alignment

This topic addresses 1 requirement from the DfE statutory RSE guidance and 6 learning outcomes from the PSHE Association Programme of Study , across KS3, KS4, KS5.

View all curriculum references

DfE RSE Statutory Guidance 2026

"The facts about the full range of contraceptive choices, efficacy and options available, including male and female condoms, and signposting towards medically accurate online information about sexual and reproductive health" Secondary RSE: Intimate and sexual relationships, 6 · KS3, KS4

PSHE Association Programme of Study 2020

"About the purpose, importance and different forms of contraception; how and where to access contraception and advice" KS3 Core Theme 1: Health and Wellbeing, H35 · KS3
"How to choose and access appropriate contraception (including emergency contraception) and negotiate contraception use with a partner" KS4 Core Theme 2: Relationships, R23 · KS4
"That certain infections can be spread through sexual activity and that barrier contraceptives offer some protection against certain sexually transmitted infections (STIs)" KS3 Core Theme 1: Health and Wellbeing, H36 · KS3
"The communication and negotiation skills necessary for contraceptive use in healthy relationships" KS3 Core Theme 2: Relationships, R32 · KS3
"To develop a nuanced understanding of how to select appropriate contraception in different contexts and relationships" KS5 Core Theme 1: Health and Wellbeing, H18 · KS5
"To evaluate the most appropriate methods of contraception in different circumstances (including emergency contraception)" KS5 Core Theme 2: Relationships, R17 · KS5