Get To Know the Team: Catherine

Who are you?

Catherine Kirk, RSE Consultant, Nottingham City Council and independent consultant. I have supported the development of the Drawing on Forced Marriage materials and workshops.

When did you first become interested in relationship and sex education?

I began my career in theatre in education, and later managed a team delivering PSHE themed interactive drama workshops in schools. In 2000, whilst working for Nottinghamshire County Council I was given the responsibility to roll out the government’s Sex and Relationships Education guidance to schools. From that moment, SRE, or RSE as it is now known became a passion!

What was the last project you worked on, and did you enjoy it?

Each year I work on RSE Day, deciding the theme, creating materials and planning activities. I always enjoy it, particularly seeing all the wonderful work that children create on the day.

How did you get involved with the ‘Drawing On Forced Marriage’ project?

I was introduced to Hannah and following an initial conversation it seemed like a great project to support as I felt it would add value to the RSE resources available to Nottingham schools.

What about the project excites you?

The project has been informed by young people’s feedback and this is so important. Putting young people at the centre of resource development ensures the resulting materials are relevant and engaging. I’m also excited by the concept, I’ve not seen anything like this before and feel it will be a great way to stimulate discussions around the topic of forced marriage.