DfE to consult on gender identity guidance for schools in 2023

The guidance, which was first announced by former Education Secretary Nadhim Zahawi in May, was originally due to be consulted on in September.

However, due to government turmoil, the publication of the draft guidance has been delayed until the new year, Gillian Keegan told the education select committee.

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In an evidence session attended by Keegan and permanent secretary at the Department for Education Susan Acland Hood, the pair were grilled by MPs on when greater support for schools supporting children with gender dysphoria would be implemented.

Keegan told the committee that she “completely understands the issue, the urgency, the sensitivity, the concern from parents” around the topic but said she “doesn't know” if there's an "absolute date" planned for publication.

There will be consultation on draft guidance for publication in 2023, she said.

Acland-Hood added that DfE “hopes” the consultation will be held early in the year.

MPs also asked Keegan if the guidance would contain information about what should be taught to pupils around gender identity as part of the curriculum.

She responded: “I haven’t looked at it – I’m not sure if [schools minister Nick] Gibb has – now isn’t the right time to say what would be in it. We need to make sure the guidance says what it does on the tin.”

She also highlighted the importatnce of "transparency" with parents over the curriculum.

Announcing plans for the guidance earlier this year, Zahawi told The Times that it would “deal with several challenging areas for schools” including toilets, changing facilities, uniform and sports teams.