Government publishes final statutory relationships, sex and health education guidance for schools.
“Children and young people will be better protected from the scourge of misogynism, deepfake porn and unhealthy attitudes to consent, power and control through new Relationships, Sex and Health Education guidance for schools being published today (Tuesday 15 July).
The statutory guidance has a new focus on helping boys identify positive role models, and challenge myths about women and relationships that are spread online in the ‘manosphere’ – without stigmatising boys for being boys.
Secondary schools will also now include lessons on incel culture, including how a piece of content online can impact a person’s understanding of sexual ethics and behaviour, as well as increasing awareness of AI, deepfakes and how pornography links to misogyny.
It comes as new data published today shows misogynistic attitudes have reached epidemic scale by the end of secondary school. When asked to think about just the past week, over a third (37%) of pupils aged 11-19 had heard comments that made them concerned about the safety of girls, and over half (54%) said they had witnessed comments they would describe as misogynistic. ”
A Vital Step Forward for Mental Health in UK Schools
As the Association of Mental Health in Education (AMHIE), we wholeheartedly welcome the updated Relationships, Sex and Health Education (RSHE) guidance. This is not merely an adjustment to curriculum; it represents a pivotal shift in how we equip our young people to navigate the increasingly complex landscape of online influences and real-world relationships. For too long, the insidious creep of misogyny, the proliferation of deepfake pornography, and distorted notions of consent have posed significant threats to the mental well-being of our students. This guidance offers a robust and timely response.
The statistics presented are stark and deeply concerning: over a third of pupils hearing misogynistic comments and over half witnessing them. This isn’t just about bad behaviour; it’s about the erosion of respect and empathy, leading to environments where mental distress can thrive. By directly addressing the “manosphere” and incel culture, the guidance empowers schools to challenge harmful narratives that can warp young minds and contribute to isolation, anger, and anxiety, particularly among boys. Teaching boys to identify positive male role models is crucial; it offers a constructive antidote to the toxic masculinity often presented online, fostering healthier self-image and relationships, which are foundational for good mental health.
The inclusion of topics such as spiking, methanol poisoning, and women’s health issues like endometriosis and fertility significantly strengthens the health syllabus. This comprehensive approach ensures that young people are not only physically safer but also possess the knowledge to advocate for their own health and well-being, reducing anxiety around misunderstood bodily functions or potential dangers. The emphasis on resilience and coping mechanisms is equally vital. In a world where anxiety and low mood are increasingly prevalent, explicitly teaching students how to manage these feelings and build grit will be instrumental in fostering their long-term mental fortitude. Recognising that anxiety can be a normal part of everyday mental health is a powerful step towards de-stigmatisation.
Perhaps most critically, the guidance’s clear stance on suicide prevention for secondary schools is a groundbreaking development. With suicide being the biggest killer of under 35s, giving schools the explicit permission and framework to discuss this sensitive topic in an age-appropriate way will undoubtedly save lives. Providing pathways for young people to open up about difficult feelings and know where to find help is paramount.
The commitment to transparency with parents and the provision of RSHE training grants are also key to successful implementation. Parental involvement is crucial for reinforcing these messages at home, and empowering the workforce with the necessary training ensures that teachers feel confident and competent in delivering these sensitive lessons. This collaborative approach, coupled with resources from Oak National Academy, will ensure that the guidance translates into effective, impactful teaching.
Ultimately, this updated RSHE guidance represents a profound investment in the mental health and well-being of the next generation. By equipping students with the tools to navigate complex social and digital landscapes, challenge harmful ideologies, and understand their own health, we are laying the groundwork for a more respectful, empathetic, and mentally resilient society. AMHIE looks forward to supporting schools in embracing these crucial changes.
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15th July 2025.
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