Teen Parents Share Their Experiences in Local Schools

The UK has amongst the highest teenage pregnancy rates in Europe and the government is constantly trying to reduce these. Traditionally, sex education in schools has focused on information giving by teachers, professionals or videos. Now, Mid Sussex District Council is supporting a new local initiative which involves teen parents 'telling it as it is' and sharing their real life experiences with 14-17 year olds across Mid Sussex. This project is part of the Healthy Mid Sussex Sussex Partnership.

The idea is that as well as students having the opportunity to hear first-hand what young parenting is like, the teen parents have the chance to increase their confidence and work skills. By 2011, Mid Sussex District Council aims to see the project reach 2000 young people across the district. Oakmeeds Community College in Burgess Hill has already taken part in the project, which is called 'It-happens'.

The young parents who present their experiences do so on a voluntary basis and discussions can include the challenges of young parenting, budgeting, housing and relationships. A new free DVD has also been produced as part of the project, a copy of which may be obtained by contacting ithappenssussex@hotmail.co.uk

So what do you feel about this revolution in education? If you are a parent of a teen, how would you feel about them listening to experiences of teenage parenting? Do you think this project will have an impact on teenage pregnancy rates?

Or perhaps you're a young person who's taken part in the project, either from a presenting or listening perspective, and would like to share your thoughts?