Relationship Education: Introduction

When did you start to think about sex and relationships? When you were 16 years old? Maybe 15? Possibly 14? Or was it even at 12?

After years of campaigning, in 2019 the Government finally made Relationships Educations compulsory in all primary schools and Relationships and Sex Education compulsory in all secondary schools. The guidance published replaces guidance that was last updated in 2000 and is due to be reviewed every three years from 2020 onwards. From my research with teachers, children’s charities, academics, parents and survivors of childhood abuse, relationship education at primary school is the one thing everyone agreed would make the biggest difference to prevent child abuse, so the changes from Government are a big step forward. Children face dangers online that were never envisaged in 2000.

It is also vital that all children feel that relationship and sex education they receive is relevant to them, as this can help ensure we create a supportive and inclusive society for everyone.