Children as young as four are to be given sex education in Glasgow schools.

The new sexual health and relationships curriculum is being rolled out in non-denominational schools across the city following pilots in the east of the city.

The curriculum deals with emotions, friendships, self-esteem and respect as well as physical development and sexual health.

Primary one pupils are to be taught the names of body parts, including male and female genitalia, and will learn about reproduction in animals from primary two. From primary five pupils will learn about puberty and in year three will learn about contraception and safe sex.

Lessons on sexual health and relationships continue throughout primary and secondary school, with sixth-year pupils getting classes on global issues associated with sexually-transmitted infections, especially HIV and AIDS.

The pilot scheme took place in 2007/08 in 13 primary schools and two secondary schools. The local authority said the scheme has received "overwhelming support" from pupils, parents and teachers.

James Coleman, deputy leader of Glasgow City Council, said "As we understand, this is the first curriculum to give pupils a comprehensive sexual health and relationships education throughout their school careers.

"Work on the curriculum has been built upon a long-term understanding of what parents and children want to see in sexual health and relationships education.

"Both parents and children made it very clear to us they wanted to be closer to one another on this issue and this curriculum allows for that to happen.

"Stronger bonds between parent and their child helps to encourage young people to delay engaging in sexual activity until they are physically and emotionally equipped to deal with the consequences."

The local health board has welcomed the new lessons. Linda de Caestecker, director of public health at NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde, said: "It is extremely heartening to see that an issue which has traditionally been regarded as difficult or taboo can now be approached in such a sensible and inclusive manner.

"Bringing parents and children closer together on sexual health and relationships education will most certainly lead to significant benefits in the long run."