Commenting as the Education Secretary declares parents have a right to see sex education material, Paul Whiteman, general secretary of school leaders' union NAHT, which represents the majority of schools in England, said:

“It is helpful for schools to be given this reassurance around copyright rules, and the backing that that they can definitely share materials when asked. But we need to be absolutely clear that schools are not, in any way, secretive about what they teach, which could be implied by the tone of this announcement.

“All schools have information readily available about their curriculum both on their website and through regular meetings for parents. Schools follow the statutory guidance on RSHE which requires them to consult parents on developing and delivering RSHE, which includes setting out the subject content and how it will be taught.

“We encourage our members to be transparent with parents, sharing both the curriculum and examples of the resources which are used, and responding positively to requests from parents to see any additional resources. It is important for all schools to work in partnership with parents to support children’s learning.

“What is really missing from this announcement is the long-promised consultation on new statutory guidance for RSHE and much-needed guidance around complex issues such as supporting transgender pupils in school. It is this that both parents and schools need clarity on, and which the government still seem no closer to delivering.”