New rules to limit gender identification in schools except for exceptional cases

Kids will be stopped from identifying as the opposite gender in schools in all-but exceptional instances, according to new rules. The long-awaited trans guidance for schools has been "toughened" in order to clarify that pupils should only be allowed to "socially transition" in rare cases.

"Presumption against" allowing children to swap pronouns, names, and uniforms

The updated guidance means that there will now be a "presumption against" allowing children to swap their pronouns, names, and uniforms in class. Parents will need to agree for their children to behave as another gender, but even then, teachers are advised to be "cautious".

Changing rooms and toilets based on biological sex

The new rules also state that changing rooms and toilets will continue to be based on biological sex rather than someone's identified gender.

Tough guidance to be released before Christmas

Education Secretary Gillian Keegan and Equalities Minister Kemi Badenoch have agreed on the "tough" guidance, which is set to be released before Christmas. The guidance was initially delayed last summer due to disagreements between the two ministers.

Parents must be involved in the decision-making process

The updated guidance will also emphasize the importance of involving parents in decisions regarding gender identification. It states that parents should be informed and that it is wrong for such decisions to be made without their involvement.

Clear and safeguarded guidance

The government spokesperson emphasized that the complexity of the issue requires clear and safeguarded guidance. They stated that any degree of social transition could have significant consequences for a child, and therefore, it is vital to have the right safeguards in place. The guidance will reflect the government's consistent stance on the importance of biological sex.