Wales Set To Introduce New Inclusive Sex Education Curriculum That Removes Words ‘Men’ And ‘Women’

On Tuesday (December 14), the Welsh Senedd debated the proposed ‘Relationships and Sexuality Education Code’ for 30 minutes before coming into force.

The proposed code removes the words ‘men’ and ‘women’ when speaking about certain bodily functions during sex education lessons and instead, will write about educating students in a non-gender specific way. 

For example, the code mentions that students should learn the processes of reproduction and what supports menstrual health 'in a human body'. 

This approach differs from what I’m sure many of us remember learning in school, if you were lucky enough to get a sex education that is, that refers to bodily developments like these as part of ‘women’s health’. 

The thought behind the proposal centers around the fact students of different genders can menstruate and reproduce.

For example, transgender boys, as well as intersex and non-binary people, will be able to feel more included in education regarding menstruation and reproduction that usually falls under the category of 'women's health'.

The code states that the RSE (‘Relationships and Sexuality Education Code’), must be used to create curriculum content that is to be 'inclusive and reflect diversity'.

“It must include learning to develop learners’ awareness and understanding of different identities, views and values and a diversity of relationships, gender and sexuality, including LGBTQ+ lives.”

This inclusive teaching will help ensure “that all learners can see themselves, their families, their communities and each other reflected across the curriculum and can learn to value difference and diversity as a source of strength."

The proposed code also involves educating students on the importance of consent and bodily autonomy both within sexual relationships and online contexts. 

Further to this, it aims to equip students with the knowledge of how to identify reliable sources of information and get helpful support for various issues they may have if they need it.

Pretty progressive, right? 

Some Twitter users, however, thought the outspoken journalist was jumping the gun a bit, with one saying: “It might be useful to read the document before going off on one!”