Overview

This bill makes Personal, Social, Health and Economic Education (PSHE), including Sex and Relationships Education (SRE) and education on ending violence against women and girls, a statutory requirement in all state-funded schools in England and Wales. It also mandates teacher training and the provision of guidance on best practice for delivering and inspecting PSHE and SRE.

Description

The bill amends the Education Act 2002 and the Education Act 1996 to legally require all state-funded schools to include PSHE in their curriculum. PSHE will encompass:

• Sex and Relationships Education (SRE)
• Education on ending violence against women and girls
• Emotional, mental, and wellbeing education
• Equality education
• Education about alcohol, tobacco, and other drugs
• Individual safety education (including online safety)
• Physical health education (including emergency lifesaving skills), nutrition, and physical activity
• Personal finance, careers, enterprise, and employability education

The specific curriculum details will be determined by the governing body and head teacher of each school, adhering to principles of accuracy, balance, age-appropriateness, and promotion of equality and diversity. The Secretary of State will provide guidance informed by government strategy and UN declarations, including safeguarding and healthy relationships.

The bill also mandates that the Secretary of State ensures PSHE is included in initial and continuing teacher education and provides guidance on best practice for delivery and inspection. This guidance will be reviewed annually.

Government Spending

The bill will likely lead to increased government spending on teacher training, curriculum development, and the production and dissemination of guidance materials. Precise figures are not provided in the bill text.

Groups Affected

• Schools: Required to implement PSHE, potentially necessitating curriculum changes and teacher training.
• Teachers: Will need to receive training on PSHE and SRE and adapt their teaching practices.
• Pupils: Will receive mandatory PSHE education, covering a wide range of topics related to their personal, social, health, and economic well-being.
• Parents/Guardians: May have varying perspectives on the content of PSHE and SRE, potentially leading to discussions and engagement with schools.
• Government: Responsible for providing funding, guidance, and oversight of the implementation of the bill.

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