Schools in England have been told they will be banned from teaching sex education to children under nine, in new government guidance expected to be published soon.
In the newly proposed guidance, “explicit” discussions such as those on topics like contraception could also be banned for those under 13 years of age.
The details of the new guidelines, which are to be announced by Education Secretary Gillian Keegan, were “still being finalised” and suggested there could still be changes before they are published.
She is also expected to consult on a ban to stop schools from teaching sex education of any type before children are nine.
The new guidance is reportedly part of the Government’s response following concerns that some children are receiving age-inappropriate relationships, sex and health education (RSHE).
Currently, children can be taught about sex and sexual health, including contraception, when they start secondary school at the age of 11.
It is thought teachers will be told to explain ‘biological’ facts when discussing gender.
Schools will also be required to show parents samples of the material they use to educate their children, which is already a requirement in some cases.
It reportedly comes after concerns that some children are being taught age-inappropriate relationships, sex and health education, according to The Times.
The new guidelines are expected to be more detailed on what can be discussed at what age.
Currently, all children must be taught relationships, sex and health education.
But the style and content vary depending on the school year and where in the UK you live.
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In primary schools, children must now receive relationships education after changes to the law in September 2020.
They will learn about different types of families and healthy relationships, including friendships and boundaries.
Currently, primary schools are allowed to teach additional sex education, but it is not a requirement, the guidance says.
However, they already have to consult parents before the final year of primary school about what sex education is being taught.
In secondary school when children are aged between 11 and 16, they can be taught about sex, sexuality and gender identity “in an age-appropriate and inclusive way,” the current guidance says.
The official guidance says that when teaching these topics, schools must recognise that “young people may be discovering or understanding their sexual orientation or gender identity.”
Meanwhile, Paul Whiteman, general secretary at school leaders’ union NAHT, said: “If what has been leaked is accurate, the government must provide the evidence which unequivocally shows that such age limits will improve the support, protection and safeguarding of children and young people.”
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