Commenting as the DfE names the members of an independent advisory panel for the consultation into updated sex education guidance this autumn, Sarah Hannafin, head of policy for school leaders' union NAHT, said:

"We are pleased to see that the expert panel must engage with a wide range of experts and stakeholders including schools and parents. However, it is concerning that there is no mention of listening to the views and experiences of children and young people.

"The statutory guidance is clear that pupils need knowledge that will enable them to make informed decisions about their wellbeing, health and relationships, to make sound decisions when facing risks and challenges and to support them to develop resilience, to know how and when to ask for help, and to know where to access support. To achieve this aim, we must also ask children and young people what they need and want from their RSHE."