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Advisory panel appointed to oversee RSHE review

The Education Secretary, Gillian Keegan, has announced the formation of an independent advisory panel who will oversee a review of relationships, sex and health education (RSHE) in schools.

The Department for Education (DfE) said this is the next step in “progressing the government’s mission to ensure that RSHE is taught in an age-appropriate and factual way in England”.

Among the panel is Alasdair Henderson, a barrister specialising in public law, human rights and equality law, who previously assisted on the Independent Inquiry into Child Sexual Abuse.

In March, the Education Secretary wrote to all schools reminding them that parents should be able to view all curriculum materials, especially for “sensitive topics” like RSHE.

According to the DfE, the panel members were “carefully considered based on their level of relevant experience and expertise and will bring together input from health, children’s development, and safeguarding”.

Other members of the advisory panel include:

  • Professor Dame Lesley Regan, professor of Obstetrics and Gynaecology at Imperial College London and the government’s first Women’s Health Ambassador
  • Sir Hamid Patel, Chief Executive of Star Academies
  • Helena Brothwell, Regional Director of School Improvement for David Ross Academy Trust
  • Isabelle Trowler, Chief Social Worker for Children and Families in England

Education Secretary Gillian Keegan, said: “The wellbeing and safeguarding of children is our absolute priority, and I share the concerns of parents and teachers about reports that inappropriate lessons are being taught in schools.

“The vast majority of teachers do an incredible job navigating these complex and sensitive issues. But the review of the statutory guidance - with the help of this expert panel - will provide clear safeguards against children being taught concepts they are too young to understand or that are inappropriate for their age.

“I’m determined to bring forward new guidance as quickly as possible, and schools should continue to engage with parents on lessons that cover the teaching of sensitive issues.”

Lottie Winson