Following the Department for Education consultations and calls for evidence in 2017-18, the guidelines for the teaching of Relationship & Sex Education (RSE) are planned to be changed such that:
– Relationship Education will be taught as standard in all primary schools in England
– Relationship & Sex Education will be taught as compulsory in all secondary schools in England
by 1 September 2020. Final guidelines are expected to be published in Spring 2019.
Draft guidelines published in July 2018 suggest that schools will have to consult with parents on the development of the curriculum taught at the school, parents will have the right to know what will be taught and ask any questions, and the religious background of the children must be considered by the school.
Numerous MCB affiliates and concerned parents have approached the Muslim Council of Britain expressing their concern and requesting guidance, on the apparent erosion of parental rights and the potential exposure of young children to graphic sexual images and concepts from a very young age. Many Muslim teachers are also calling for clarity on what they may be expected to teach in Relationships & Sex Education classes.
The MCB is listening to the views of Muslim communities and in touch with multi-faith campaign and awareness-raising groups on this subject. Anyone wishing to get in touch to share their views can do so online here.