Overview

This bill mandates that all schools in England and Wales provide comprehensive sex and relationships education (SRE) to registered pupils. It amends the Education Act 1996 to include SRE, clarifying its scope and allowing pupils of "sufficient maturity" to request exemption.

Description

The Sex and Relationships Education Bill significantly alters the 1996 Education Act. Key changes include:

• Mandatory SRE: Makes SRE compulsory in all maintained schools, academies, and similar institutions in England and Wales. Schools must take "reasonably practicable" steps to ensure delivery.
• Curriculum Expansion: Expands the definition of SRE to explicitly include education about civil partnerships and the importance of strong and stable relationships. It clarifies that human reproduction taught as part of science is not considered SRE.
• Exemption Clause: Introduces a process for pupils of "sufficient maturity" to request exemption from SRE, wholly or partially. The Secretary of State will define "sufficient maturity" through regulations subject to parliamentary approval.

Government Spending

The bill doesn't directly specify government spending figures. The implementation of mandatory SRE might necessitate additional teacher training, curriculum development, and potentially resource allocation to schools. However, no specific financial estimations are provided in the bill text.

Groups Affected

• Schools: Will be required to implement SRE, potentially needing to adjust curricula, provide teacher training, and allocate resources.
• Pupils: Will receive mandatory SRE unless they are deemed of "sufficient maturity" to request exemption.
• Parents/Guardians: While not directly addressed in the bill, parental concerns regarding SRE content may arise.
• Teachers: Will be responsible for delivering the SRE curriculum, needing adequate training and resources.

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