MP makes fresh push for compulsory PSHE in schools

Lucas, MP for Brighton Pavilion, previously introduced a PSHE Bill in July 2014, that would have made PSHE a statutory subject for state-funded schools across England and Wales, but it made no progress.

She is due to introduce a ten minute rule bill to parliament after prime minister’s questions in a fresh attempt to get legislation past.

Lucas said PSHE is a “crucial part” of a child’s education, and has “huge potential” in relation to employability and academic success, as well as helping to keep young people safe.

The bill would also require lessons to include sex and relationships education (SRE) and on ending violence against women and girls, as well as training for teachers on how to best deliver lessons.

Schools are not currently required to teach PSHE, after the government decided in 2013, after a 20-month review, to maintain the subject's non-compulsory status.

Mary Bousted, general secretary of the Association of Teachers and Lecturers (ATL), said: “Education professionals want PSHE and SRE to become compulsory in all schools so they can help young people to become resilient, well-rounded, and confident adults.

“Teaching young people about sex and relationships helps them to make well-informed life choices.

"PSHE should be a discrete statutory subject which reinforces life skills across the whole curriculum."

Joe Hayman, chief executive of the PSHE Association, said statutory status for PSHE has the support of parliamentarians from across the political spectrum.