Sex and Relationships Education (SRE) in English schools: A Children's Rights Perspective

Abstract

This thesis examines the provision of SRE in English schools from a children’s rights perspective. It highlights the importance of SRE for building children’s autonomy and realising their rights to health, education, information, and non-discrimination, among other things. In doing so, it argues that access to SRE is an inherent right of children and young people. It considers the roles of parents and the State in educating children on matters of sexuality, and develops a theoretical for sexuality education that respects children’s rights, without detracting from the parental right to direct their children’s education.