Question to the Department for Education:

To ask the Secretary of State for Education, what the reasons are for the extension of the timetable for the implementation of statutory relationships and sex education from September 2019 to September 2020; and if he will make a statement.

The Department is committed to bringing in compulsory Relationships Education and Relationships and Sex Education, and supporting schools to teach high quality lessons. This is an important change to the curriculum that has to be carefully considered and delivered well.

Whilst many schools will be able to adapt their existing teaching quickly, it is essential that an appropriate period is given for those schools that need more time to plan and prepare. The Department will be working with schools to help them to prepare before teaching starts. This is in line with the Department’s approach to any significant changes to the curriculum.

The Department will launch a consultation on the draft regulations and statutory guidance shortly and will say more about the implementation timetable at that point.