Ms Hargreaves noted that parents or caregivers have the right to withdraw their child from any particular element of sexuality education in a health programme. "This is why," she says, "it is crucial that parents/caregivers understand the programme content, then they can make informed decisions."
"Relationship and sexuality education programmes must be allocated space within the school timetable. Twelve to 15 hours per year, every year, from years 1 to 10," Ms Hargreaves says.
"While it seems simple - and many might be surprised to think about an exercise like this as part of the relationship and sexuality education programme, it is this developing attitudes of care and concern for other people by applying manaakitanga that is important. This is foundational skill learning that young people can apply as they get older and their relationships become more complex," Ms Hargreaves says.
"At this level, relationship and sexuality education focuses on positive identity, celebrating diversity, friendships and whÄnau relationships, interpersonal skills, dealing with bullying and harassment, and identifying supporters."
She closed by challenging teachers to think about where relationship and sexuality education sat within their school - what resourcing did they have and what needs to be done? When was the last time consultation was completed?
"The challenge returning to your schools is to think about how relationship and sexuality education can be progressed - the curriculum and supporting resources provide a great foundation, but your parents and your Boards of Trustees need to be on board too."