4 year olds to be given sex education at school

A brand new government scheme will see 4 year olds receiving sex education lessons in school. Within the first year, the tots will learn about male and female genitals before going onto animal reproduction in the 2nd year.

The initiative, launched by Glasgow City Council, has caused a fair amount of controversy. It has been planned for both primary and secondary children and the idea behind it is provide much better education about sexual health.

However, Tory schools spokeswoman; Liz Smith has said “there will be massive concerns about extending sex education to children in Primary 1. Children as young as four - and just out of nursery - will be involved in this new curriculum. Just how well can they be expected to cope with understanding even some of the more simple facts?"- The Sun, 09.

James Coleman, Deputy council leader, commented: “This is the first curriculum to give pupils comprehensive sexual health and relationships education throughout their school careers.”- The Sun , 09.

The pupils will be taught about puberty, and eventually, safe sex. The issue of youngsters being taught about these subjects is a double edged sword to a degree. The question of whether they are simply too young is prevalent whilst of course; the growing rate of underage pregnancies and STDs is becoming a growing concern.