Children are increasingly exposed to harmful content online,
including misogynistic attitudes and unhealthy views about
relationships.
That's why schools across England are getting new guidance to help
teachers navigate these challenges and support children to
develop positive attitudes.
The government has published updated guidance for
relationships, sex and health
education in schools, with a fresh focus on helping all
children identify positive role models and challenge harmful
ideas they might encounter online and in real life.
But what do these changes mean for parents and pupils? Here's
what you need to know.
Why has the guidance been updated?
New research shows just how widespread exposure to misogyny or
harmful online content has become. When asked about just the past
week, over a third of pupils aged 11-19 had heard comments that
made them worry about girls' safety, and more than half witnessed
comments they would describe as misogynistic.
Research also found that over one in five girls aged 7 to 10 had
seen inappropriate images online, with the average age for
exposure to pornography being 13.
Schools need the right
tools to help children understand these challenges and develop
healthy attitudes to relationships from an early age.
What will my child learn?
The approach starts early, with primary school children learning
about positive relationships between friends and family.
This builds the foundation for understanding respect and
kindness in all relationships whilst making sure kids know how to
be safe and recognise what counts as abusive behaviour so they
can ask for help if they need it.
In secondary school, all pupils learn about consent, and lessons
focus on helping teenagers understand consent as well as kindness
and respect as they're getting ready for more intimate
relationships. They will learn to identify positive role models
and understand how to challenge harmful attitudes they might
encounter online.
How will these topics be taught?
Teachers will be supported to bring these topics to life in ways
that stay with pupils as they leave the classroom - creating safe
spaces where children can have meaningful discussions that have
lasting impact.
The guidance sets clear
safeguards to ensure teaching remains age-appropriate. This means
making sure kids don't get taught things they are too young for,
whilst allowing teachers to sensitively and safely respond to
topics children have encountered on- or off-line.
Will I know what my child is learning?
Yes. The guidance makes clear
that parents should be able to view all curriculum materials on
request. Schools cannot agree to any contractual restrictions
with external providers that would prevent parents from seeing
content their school plans to use.
This transparency ensures you can stay informed about what your
child is learning and have conversations at home to support their
understanding.
How will teachers be supported?
Teachers will receive proper training to handle these sensitive
topics effectively. From early 2026, schools will be able to
apply for training grants to help their staff tackle these
challenges with confidence.
Oak National Academy has also developed new online safety
lessons that help
teenagers learn about harmful ideologies and other forms of
misogyny they might encounter online.
What about mental health support?
Alongside relationship education, children will learn about
building resilience and managing everyday mental health
challenges. They'll understand that some anxiety and low mood can
be normal parts of life, while learning strategies to cope with
these feelings.
Secondary schools will work closely with mental health professionals
to discuss suicide prevention in age-appropriate ways. This goes
alongside the government's broader rollout of access to a mental
health professional in every school, ensuring children have the
support they need to achieve and thrive.
