Understanding comprehensive sex education 
Comprehensive sex education is an educational approach that provides students with accurate, age-appropriate, and culturally relevant information about sex, relationships, and sexuality. Unlike abstinence-only programs, which focus narrowly on promoting abstinence until marriage, comprehensive sex education encompasses a broad spectrum of topics. These include human development, reproductive health, interpersonal relationships, consent, and digital safety. The overarching goal of comprehensive sex education is to equip students with the knowledge and skills necessary to make informed decisions, establish healthy relationships, and navigate the complex social and emotional dynamics they encounter throughout their lives.

At its core, comprehensive sex education aims to empower students to understand their bodies, recognise the importance of consent, and respect the diversity of sexual orientations and gender identities. By providing students with a well-rounded understanding of these topics, comprehensive sex education fosters a more inclusive and empathetic society. 
  
The importance of consent 
One of the cornerstones of comprehensive sex education is the teaching of consent. Consent is the explicit agreement to engage in a particular activity and must be given freely, willingly, and without any form of coercion. Understanding consent is crucial in preventing sexual violence and promoting respectful interactions. It is not only about saying "yes" or "no" to sexual activities but also about respecting boundaries in all aspects of life. 

Educating students about consent helps them recognise and respect boundaries, both their own and those of others. It fosters a culture where communication and mutual respect are prioritized, making it clear that all parties involved in any interaction must agree to participate freely. Lessons on consent should be tailored to the students` developmental stages and include discussions about the importance of enthusiastic, ongoing, and clear consent. Additionally, it is essential to address the misconceptions surrounding consent, such as the idea that it can be implied or assumed, reinforcing the notion that consent must always be explicitly communicated and respected.