Ireland · NCCA Curriculum Specifications
2nd Year Social, Personal and Health Education (SPHE).
The Second Year SPHE curriculum builds upon students' self-awareness and focuses on emotional wellbeing, healthy relationships, and making safe choices. It aligns with the NCCA Junior Cycle Wellbeing guidelines to foster resilience, empathy, and informed decision-making.
01Emotional Wellbeing and Mental Health
This unit explores the spectrum of human emotions, the importance of resilience, and how to seek support for mental health challenges.
Students explore the spectrum of human emotions and how they manifest physically and mentally. They learn to identify triggers and articulate their feelings effectively.
This topic focuses on developing coping strategies to bounce back from adversity. Students examine real-life scenarios to understand how resilience can be cultivated.
Students identify the support networks available to them in their school and community. They practice how to ask for help for themselves or a friend in distress.
02Respectful Relationships
Students analyze the dynamics of interpersonal relationships, focusing on communication, boundaries, and conflict resolution.
Students analyze the characteristics of healthy, supportive relationships versus toxic or unhealthy ones. They explore the importance of mutual respect and trust.
This topic teaches assertive communication skills and the importance of setting personal boundaries. Students practice saying no and respecting the boundaries of others.
Students explore strategies for resolving conflicts peacefully and addressing bullying, including cyberbullying. They discuss the role of the bystander in bullying situations.
03Health and Body Image
This unit examines the physical and psychological aspects of health, including the impact of media on body image and the importance of healthy daily habits.
Students critically examine how social media and advertising influence body image and self-esteem. They learn to challenge unrealistic beauty standards.
This topic connects physical health with overall wellbeing, focusing on balanced nutrition and active lifestyles. Students evaluate their own daily habits.
Students investigate the relationship between screen time, sleep quality, and mental health. They develop personal plans for better sleep hygiene.
04Substance Use and Safe Choices
Students learn about the risks associated with substance use, including alcohol and vaping, and develop skills to resist peer pressure.
Students learn about the nature of addiction and the physical and social risks associated with substance misuse. They explore the factors that lead to addiction.
This topic provides factual information on the effects of alcohol and vaping on the developing teenage brain and body. Students analyze the marketing tactics used by these industries.
Students practice decision-making skills to resist negative peer pressure regarding substance use. They role-play scenarios to build confidence in making safe choices.