The government of the United Kingdom is implementing an overhaul of sex education in schools, instructing teachers not to teach children about concepts of gender theory. The Department of Education’s updated guidance for Relationships, Sex and Health Education aims to eliminate controversial viewpoints and inappropriate content from lessons. Specifically, the new guidance restricts all sex education lessons to students aged 9 and above and reinforces parental rights to monitor the materials being presented to their children. The government is explicitly instructing teachers not to teach the contested theory of gender identity or the idea of a gender spectrum, focusing instead on legally protected characteristics such as sexual orientation and gender reassignment.
This change comes in response to reports of disturbing materials being used in Relationships, Sex and Health Education (RSHE) lessons, prompting concerns about children’s understanding of the content being taught. The government aims to ensure that all material presented in sex education classes is factual, appropriate, and age-appropriate. The guidance is supported by the Cass Review, an independent report commissioned by the National Health Service that highlighted the lack of guidance, evidence, and training for medical professionals regarding gender disorders. It is emphasized that schools should take a cautious approach to teaching sensitive topics, such as gender identity, and refrain from using materials that present contested views as fact.
Prime Minister Rishi Sunak has expressed concern over reports of inappropriate and disturbing content being presented to children in classrooms. He emphasized the importance of parents being able to trust that their children are safe and not exposed to unsuitable content at school. The new guidance will address these concerns by ensuring that sex education lessons are appropriate for children’s age and understanding. The government’s decision to limit teaching on gender identity and spectrum is in alignment with the recommendations of the Cass Review, which highlighted the need for a cautious approach to discussing these topics.
Following the public consultation period, the updated guidance will become statutory, and schools will be required to comply with the regulations outlined by the Department of Education. The aim is to provide children with accurate and age-appropriate information on relationships, sex, and health education while respecting parental rights to be informed about the materials being presented in classrooms. By restricting the teaching of contested theories of gender identity and spectrum, the government seeks to ensure that children receive a factual and respectful education on sensitive topics. This new approach to sex education reflects a commitment to safeguarding children’s well-being and ensuring that they receive appropriate and informative education on these important topics.
