Kirsty Williams, Welsh Liberal Democrat Education Minister, has announced the latest step in transformational reforms to relationship and sexuality education in Wales.

These reforms will emphasise the importance of healthy relationships, expanding sex education to cover a wider range of subjects that will support the wellbeing of Welsh pupils. A key focus is to ensure RSE is fully inclusive of all genders and sexualities.

An independent expert panel, established by Kirsty Williams, has helped inform the work. Today a consultation has been launched on a refreshed guidance document, allowing for wider input and ensuring the guidance is as effective as possible.

Jane Dodds, Leader of the Welsh Liberal Democrats, said:

“The Welsh Liberal Democrats are proud to be transforming relationship and sexuality education, making it fit for the future and supporting all pupils with their wellbeing.

“We should never forget the horrors of Section 28, particularly in the middle of LGBT History Month. A government telling its schools they should not promote the “acceptability of homosexuality” is a stain on our history.

“RSE needs to be inclusive for all of our pupils which is why these reforms are so very important.”

Kirsty Williams, Welsh Liberal Democrat Education Minister, said:

“We are broadening traditional sex education to focus on things like rights, gender equality, emotions and relationships. It will help pupils develop the skills needed to develop healthy relationships supporting them throughout their life.

“Changes will be taken forward in Wales’ groundbreaking new curriculum, but we also want to take action as soon as possible which is why we are consulting on this draft guidance now.”

The consultation can be found here - https://beta.gov.wales/draft-guidance-relationships-and-sexuality-education