Community has expressed alarm over leaked proposals for sex education from the UK Government.
Under new guidance set to be unveiled this week, schools in England would be banned from teaching sex education to children under 9.
Community Union’s Head of Education Policy Martin Hodge said:
“This announcement seeks to prolong the argument about inappropriate teaching in our schools – something that there is little evidence of from years of Ofsted reports and other studies.
“This new plan comes hot on the heels of the woefully inadequate guidance on gender questioning children, which was roundly criticised as failing to take into account the needs of the children, or the staff who work with them in our schools.
“The new curriculum was devised by the government and implemented just a few years ago (2020) and is currently undergoing a review as was always planned.
“We are concerned that this is just another way of driving division by pitting teachers and school staff against parents and the government. The Government is attempting to import a fabricated US style culture war to the UK, while the real issues around pay, staffing levels, and achievement within our education system remain unsolved.
“But we will continue to engage with Government to ensure that the needs of children across the country, and the rights of our teacher and support staff members are protected.”
Under current guidance, primary schools can decide when to cover any aspect of sex education appropriate to the needs of their pupils. This is normally covered in year 6 as well as through science lessons, but schools are required to deliver relationship education covering topics such as acceptance of all, trust, and consent. Parents retain the provision to opt their children out of sex education classes.
Community is the union for education and early years professionals: representing teachers, headteachers, education, school support staff and early years staff. With over fifty years’ experience, we represent members and campaign to improve conditions for education and early years professionals. We are a modern trade union, campaigning for a better working world.
If you are a member of Community and need advice or support, please contact our Service Centre at help@community-tu.org or on 0800 389 6332.
© Community Trade Union 2025
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