Relationships Education, Relationships and Sex Education, and Health Education

Debate between Lord Agnew of Oulton and Lord Haselhurst

Monday 25th February 2019 Lords Chamber

[Lord Agnew of Oulton]

Let me clarify the definition of an independent school: while academies are defined as independent schools, they fall within these regulations, so I can reassure the noble Baroness on that point. We are still in the stages of finalising the independent school guidance, and will address the issues raised.

[Lord Haselhurst (Con)]

My Lords, does my noble friend agree that the continuing advance of social media is presenting severe challenges for parents and teachers alike in knowing how and when it is best to deal with this difficult subject, in what is already a sensitive area? I welcome what the Secretary of State has announced today. It is right not only that it happens now, but that it be renewed on a very regular basis, to keep up with the changes in social media.

[Lord Agnew of Oulton]

My noble friend is absolutely correct. Internet safety is an integral part of the subject content. The principles of positive relationships apply as much online as they do in other contexts. The distinction between the online world and other aspects of life is less marked for young people. Schools should support their pupils in distinguishing between different types of online content, and making well-founded decisions. As I mentioned earlier, we intend to produce supporting information for schools on how to teach all aspects of internet safety—not just relating to relationships, sex and health, but to help schools deliver in a co-ordinated and coherent way across the curriculum.

Small and Medium-sized Enterprises: Student Work Placements

Debate between Lord Agnew of Oulton and Lord Haselhurst

Monday 16th July 2018 Lords Chamber

[Lord Agnew of Oulton]

My Lords, most SMEs have what is called a combined business insurance policy, which includes such things as indemnity limits for public liability. I am therefore comfortable that that would be covered, but that of course would be up to the employer to check.

[Lord Haselhurst (Con)]

My Lords, is my noble friend aware of the college that has been set up with the co-operation of Stansted Airport and Essex County Council, which provides on-the-spot opportunities in technical training for people in the locality. Should we not hope to see that example followed in many other places?

[Lord Agnew of Oulton]

My Lords, I am not aware of that excellent opportunity but I hope that it will provide inspiration to other employers.