Supporting Parents and Children in PSHE, RSE, and Trans Education
PSHEbrighton is a support and campaign group established with the aim of assisting families in Brighton & Hove who have concerns with the delivery of Personal, Social, Health, and Economic Education (PSHE) and Relationships and Sex Education (RSE) in local schools.
In today’s rapidly evolving world, it is crucial to equip children with the knowledge and skills they need to navigate their personal and social lives. PSHEbrighton recognizes the significance of these subjects in the holistic education of children and acknowledges the challenges that may arise in their delivery.
Implementation issues in Brighton & Hove
PSHEbrighton acknowledges that the implementation and delivery of PSHE/RSE in Brighton & Hove face significant challenges. One major concern is the recruitment and retention of third-party organizations in schools, who may have vested interests and promote harmful ideologies and unscientific information to vulnerable and sensitive children.
- We know, contrary to DfE guidance and blamed upon COVID lockdowns, parents were not consulted by schools on materials and resources ahead of compulsory RSE implementation in September 2020.
- We know some schools refuse to share information about materials and resources being used in PSHE/RSE delivery with enquiring parents because these are provided by third-party organisations.
- We know that All Sorts Youth Project has considerable access and influence in our schools with facilitators delivering training to staff and workshops to children, but without pedagogical qualifications only NVQ’s in youth work.
- We know that the Trans toolkit in schools was co-authored by All Sorts Youth Project but without cited academic research to justify its assertions about children and their experiences with gender dysphoria and gender questioning.
- We know that local schools are socially transitioning children despite the government’s Cass Report that states categorically that the social transitioning of children is not a neutral act but a medical intervention.
- We know that All Sorts is used by schools in collaboration with Social Services to refer children for gender affirming care and experimental medical interventions without the knowledge nor consent of parents.
PSHEbrighton provides a platform for families to voice their concerns, seek advice, and collaborate in advocating for comprehensive and factually accurate PSHE and RSE education in the community.
The Value of Parental Engagement
PSHEbrighton firmly embraces the empowering role of parents as the primary educators and natural protectors of their children. We firmly believe in ensuring that parents are actively involved in decisions concerning their children’s welfare, with only the rarest exceptions. Encouraging parental engagement serves as a powerful catalyst for a thriving PSHE and RSE curriculum. By fostering open and honest conversations about these important topics at home, parents become advocates of early intervention and ongoing prevention, effectively safeguarding children and promoting their mental well-being.
By championing parents as crucial educators, schools have the power to amplify positive results in PSHE and RSE. Furthermore, this approach allows schools to cultivate a strong partnership with parents, aligning with the Department for Education’s (DfE) guidelines on parental consultation.
Empowering Parents with Information
The Department for Education has implemented a requirement for primary students to receive Relationships Education, while secondary students will receive Relationships and Sex Education (RSE) starting from September 2020. Emphasizing the significance of parental involvement, the department has urged schools to engage in consultations with parents when developing and reviewing their RSHE policies. This collaborative approach aims to ensure that curriculum content is appropriate for each age group and considerate of students’ individual needs. While consultation does not grant parents the power to veto curriculum content, it provides them with a platform to contribute input, raise questions, and address concerns.
In order to facilitate parental comprehension of the curriculum as well as the instructional materials employed during PSHE and RSE lessons, it is imperative for educational institutions to furnish parents with tangible examples of the resources that will be utilized. By nurturing this level of transparency, schools can empower parents to make well-informed decisions and engage in meaningful dialogues with their children. Furthermore, schools should ensure that their RSHE policies are readily accessible to all individuals, free of charge, by publishing them online.
Safeguarding and Child Welfare
Child safety and welfare are paramount in the delivery of PSHE and RSE. It is everyone’s responsibility to protect children from harmful or inappropriate content, both online and offline. Schools must provide the knowledge and skills needed for children to navigate the world safely and make informed decisions.
Parents concerned about Trans querying children
It is crucial for parents to know that they are not alone in their concerns about medical transition for children who consider themselves transgender. Parenting is a complex journey filled with various challenges, and grappling with the topic of transgender querying children can be particularly overwhelming for many individuals. However, it is important to provide support and resources for parents who have questions or doubts about this topic, ensuring that they have access to accurate information and the opportunity to engage in meaningful discussions.
Understanding the emotional, psychological, and physical aspects of gender dysphoria can be difficult, but it is vital for parents to educate themselves and seek guidance from experts in this field. Connecting with professionals, such as pediatricians, therapists, and support groups, can help parents navigate this complex terrain and make informed decisions for the well-being of their children.
By fostering a supportive environment for parents, we can work together to ensure the well-being of all children. Offering compassion, empathy, and non-judgmental support can make a significant difference in the lives of both parents and transgender querying children. It is crucial to remember that open dialogue and understanding go hand in hand, and respecting diverse perspectives can lead to better outcomes for everyone involved.
PSHEbrighton believes in supporting parents who have concerns about medical transition for their transgender querying children is of utmost importance. By facilitating open conversations, supplying accurate information, and fostering a supportive environment, we can work towards ensuring the well-being and happiness of all children.
Conclusion
Supporting parents and children in the safe delivery of PSHE and RSE is vital for their overall well-being and development. By involving parents in the curriculum development process, addressing concerns and misconceptions, and providing resources and information, we can ensure that children receive the education they need to thrive. With a focus on inclusivity, safeguarding, and child welfare, we can create a healthy school community that prepares children for a successful adult life.