Overview

This bill mandates the inclusion of relationship, drug, and alcohol education (PSHE) within the national curriculum for maintained schools in England. It outlines the content of PSHE, sets principles for its delivery, and requires the Secretary of State to provide guidance to schools.

Description

The Relationship, Drug and Alcohol Education (Curriculum) Bill amends the Education Act 2002 and the Education and Inspections Act 2006 to include PSHE as a foundation subject across all key stages in maintained schools in England.

Content of PSHE:

PSHE will cover: alcohol and tobacco education; information about illegal drugs and new psychoactive substances; emotional health and well-being; sex and relationship education (including same-sex relationships, sexual violence, domestic violence, and sexual consent); and individual safety.

Teaching Principles:

The bill establishes principles for teaching PSHE, emphasizing accuracy, balance, age-appropriateness, consideration of religious and cultural backgrounds, and the promotion of equality and acceptance of diversity. The Secretary of State will issue guidance to ensure a coherent approach across schools.

Legal Requirements:

Governing bodies and head teachers must ensure that guidance issued by the Secretary of State is followed and the teaching principles are adhered to.

Government Spending

The bill doesn't specify direct government spending figures. However, costs will likely arise from the development and dissemination of guidance materials by the Department for Education, as well as potential teacher training costs.

Groups Affected

This bill will directly affect:

• Schools and Colleges in England: They will be required to implement PSHE in their curriculum, potentially requiring curriculum changes, teacher training, and resource allocation.
• Pupils in England: They will receive education on relationship, drug, and alcohol issues.
• Teachers: They will be responsible for delivering PSHE, needing appropriate training and resources.
• Governing Bodies: They will have a legal duty to ensure compliance with the bill's requirements.
• Parents: They will indirectly be impacted by the curriculum changes, and may have views on the content and approach of PSHE.

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