A BERWICK Catholic school has assured parents that it is ‘accepting of all students’ following accusations of censorship and LGBT discrimination in relation to a sex ed class.

During a class at the end of term one, Year 9 students from St Francis Xavier College were asked to tear out the page in a health workbook that contained definitions for heterosexuality, homosexuality, bisexuality and asexuality.

media_camera Students were told to tear this page out of a health workbook at St Francis Xavier College.

The page also contained questions about premarital sex, the ‘right’ age to become sexually active and what to say to a friend who was thinking about having sex for the first time.

Principal Vincent Feeney said the decision was made because questions relating to premarital sex would be better answered in religious education class.

“As a Catholic school we believe that these matters cannot be ignored but that they are best discussed within the family first and foremost, and in an (religious education) class,” he said.

“Many in society are sensitive to the pressures and discrimination faced by same sex attracted

youth.

“I would like to assure you that the college is accepting of all its students and as a principal

this has been my position for many years.

“I am concerned that some have felt that our actions in removing a page from a booklet signals a less welcoming stance but that is certainly not our intention.

“If some have interpreted it in that way then I apologise for the confusion and would like to reassure them of our commitment to inclusivity.

“At the same time I wished that the person or persons with concerns had contacted the college

rather than the media.”

Education Minister James Merlino said it was disappointing that students were told to rip the page out of their textbooks.

“While we support schools’ choices in using resources that best reflect their communities’ needs, the message this instruction sends about respect and diversity is concerning,” Mr Merlino said.

“Victoria’s education system is known for its acceptance and celebration of diversity and I would encourage all schools, government and non-government, to promote that.”

The controversy follows extensive debate about the Safe Schools program, which aims to teach students and teachers empathy for same-sex attracted and gender-diverse young people.

Comment was sought from the Safe Schools Coalition and Minister for Equality Martin Foley.