P-04-636 Statutory Sex and Relationships Education (SRE)

We ask the Welsh Government to make SRE a statutory subject in the curriculum for all schools and educational establishments in Wales. We submit this petition on behalf of the ABFABB project's service users and the Bridgend LGBT Forum. SRE is currently delivered as part of Personal and Social Education (PSE). Delivery is inconsistent and often non-inclusive of LGBT relationships. Evidence shows that 85% of young people are not taught the biological and physical aspects of same-sex relationships, while only 22% discussed LGB issues in SRE classes (Stonewall Cymru, 2012). Inclusive SRE allows a greater awareness of different families, relationships and feelings. It ultimately contributes to combat homophobic, transphobic and biphobic bullying and language in schools. It also favours a more transparent working environment for teachers and all staff.

Inclusive delivery can only be achieved if SRE is granted statutory status across Wales. We propose that a statutory status should allow for:

• A compulsory element to the subject which will ensure implementation.

• An inclusive, age-appropriate delivery with set learning expectation for each progression step.

• A comprehensive training programme for teachers and all staff.

• Information on both sexuality and gender identity; although these are distinct from one another, awareness of all positive relationships from an early age will benefit all children, regardless of identity or sexuality.

Petition raised by: Cristina Lepri

Date petition first considered by Committee: 16 June 2015

Number of signatures: 155 Online signatures