The UK government has published new draft guidance for schools in England, stating that they should not teach about gender identity. The guidance, announced by Prime Minister Rishi Sunak, aims to prevent children from being exposed to what he described as 'disturbing content'. It also introduces age restrictions for various topics in sex education.
Under the plans, secondary school pupils will learn about protected characteristics such as sexual orientation and gender reassignment, but the guidance explicitly says schools 'should not teach about the concept of gender identity'. Education Secretary Gillian Keegan emphasised that 'biological sex is the basis of relationship, sex and health education'. The government has also strengthened rules to make it easier for parents to access teaching materials.
The guidance sets out specific age limits for teaching certain topics. For example, sex education should not be taught before Year 5, and explicit discussion of sexual violence should not occur before Year 9. Schools must have a policy for handling questions about restricted topics, which may involve asking pupils to speak to their parents or signposting support services.
Some teachers and unions have expressed concerns. Pepe Di'Iasio, general secretary of the Association of School and College Leaders, said it was important that 'banning the teaching of gender identity does not shut down discussion'. Shadow education minister Catherine McKinnell noted that teaching about the world must include an understanding that transgender people exist. However, some parents welcomed the restrictions, while others warned that children denied information at school might seek it online.
