What English schools must teach about marriage, cohabitation and sex
In short
Since the Children and Social Work Act 2017, relationships education is compulsory in English primary schools and relationships and sex education in secondary schools. Revised statutory guidance in force from 1 September 2026 requires pupils to learn about the legal status of marriage and that 'common-law marriage' is a myth. Parents may request withdrawal from sex education.
What the full article will cover
- What does the law require schools to teach?
- What does the 2026 guidance say about marriage and cohabitation?
- Can parents withdraw their children?
- How can faith schools teach these subjects?
- How do Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland differ?
Frequently asked questions
- Can parents withdraw children from relationships education?
- At what age can pupils choose sex education themselves?
- Do faith schools have to follow the guidance?
- Does the guidance promote marriage?
Sources
- legislation.gov.uk — https://www.legislation.gov.uk/ukpga/2017/16/section/34
- gov.uk — https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/relationships-education-relationships-and-sex-education-rse-and-health-education
- assets.publishing.service.gov.uk — https://assets.publishing.service.gov.uk/media/6970e7e67e827090d02d42e0/Relationships_education_relationships_and_sex_education__RSE__and_health_education__for_intro_1_September_2026_.pdf
General information, not legal or religious advice.