Introduction
Who is this information for?
What is sex and relationship education (SRE)?
Why does sex and relationship education (SRE) matter?
Parents and sex and relationship education (SRE):
The content of school sex and relationship education
What do young people say?
What do other parents say?
Your rights as a parent
What should you do?
Some useful values statements to think about when talking with your child:

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Introduction

This information leaflet follows on from our Sex and Relationship Education Guidance (published July 2000). It details the areas of sex and relationship education that are covered in statutory science lessons and also provides information and advice to those parents who are considering withdrawing their child from the non-statutory elements of sex and relationship education.

Who is this information for?

It is written for parents and carers. Particularly those who may have worries about sex and relationship education (SRE) at school and those who want to find out more.

What is sex and relationship education (SRE)?

It is lifelong learning about physical, moral and emotional development. It is about understanding the importance of marriage for family life; stable and loving relationships, respect, love and care. It is also about the teaching of sex, sexuality and sexual health. It is not about the promotion of sexual orientation or sexual activity.

Why does sex and relationship education (SRE) matter?

Our children learn about sex and relationships from the very youngest age, even if we don't talk with them. Some of the things they learn are incorrect, confusing and frightening. In a world where sex is used to sell things from food to fast cars, and celebrities' lives become everyone's business, we should talk to our children to help them make sense of it all.

As well as this, in the UK we have the highest rates of teenage pregnancy in Western Europe. We also have high rates of sexually transmitted infections (STIs). Effective SRE does not encourage early sexual experimentation - but it does enable young people to mature, to build up their confidence and self-esteem and to understand the reasons for delaying sexual activity until they are ready.

Parents and sex and relationship education (SRE):

As a parent / carer, you are the key person for your child's learning about sex and relationships. Schools should always work in partnership with parents / carers. You need to know that the school's SRE programme will complement your role and support you as sex educator of your child. For example, governing bodies and schools should consult with parents / carers when developing or updating the school's SRE policy. They should ensure your views are heard and that taught SRE is culturally appropriate and inclusive of all children.