Table 1 The PREPARE after-school educational programme: session topics and objectives

Values clarification (1)

Meet facilitator, learn about programme, identify personal values and aspirations including how they want to treat people and be treated

Assertiveness and communication (2)

Identify four communication styles and their consequences

Practice assertive communication in the context of sexual decision making

Gender and power (2)

Differentiate the concepts ‘sex’ and ‘gender’

Critically analyses dominant social ideas about gender roles and gender power

Explore the kind of man or woman they want to be

Relationships (6)

Identify characteristics of a caring relationship

Identify the qualities they value in an intimate partner

Identify and learn to respond to relationship problems

Develop skills to begin and end relationships respectfully and safely

Sexual decision making (4)

Learn about positive and negative consequences of having sex

Develop action plans to prevent having sex until they are ready

Identify behaviours that put them at risk of HIV, STIs and pregnancy

Critically analyse the risks of multiple partnerships, intergenerational partnerships and transactional sex

Develop skills to use a condom

Violence (4)

Recognise types of IPV and warning signs

Understand reasons people use violence

Reflect on own values in relation to violence

Understand laws related to IPV and sexual violence and the legal support services

Demonstrate risk monitoring and safety planning skills

Support (1)

Develop understanding and empathy towards victims of IPV and sexual violence

Understand the importance of seeking help for IPV and sexual violence

Identify the ways and places to get help, and how to support friends

Creating lasting change (1)

Consolidate and share what they have gained from the programme

Reflect on their ability to act as agents of change within their school and community