A Growing Debate Over Parental Rights and School Transparency

Mr. Doherty’s decision reignited a national debate about parental involvement in sex education. Since September 2020, Relationships Education has been compulsory in UK primary schools, while Relationships and Sex Education (RSE) is mandatory in secondary schools. Yet confusion remains — with many schools relying on third-party charities for teaching materials that may push boundaries or lack proper age guidance.

Doherty described the system as a “sausage factory” approach to education, where sensitive topics are processed without nuance or care. “Schools should be safe places to learn,” he said, “not where children are exposed to concepts they’re too young to understand.”

In response to mounting complaints, the Department for Education confirmed that it has launched an urgent review into the curriculum. Officials are considering age ratings for teaching materials and reaffirmed that parents have the right to access all classroom resources, including those produced by external providers.

Thurston Church of England Primary Academy defended its curriculum, saying it follows government-approved PSHE guidance and has since reviewed its materials to ensure appropriateness.

Still, Doherty’s case has become symbolic of a larger concern — a call for transparency and trust between educators and families. “Parents aren’t the enemy,” he said. “We just want to know that our children are being taught responsibly, with respect for their age and innocence.”

For many, his story serves as a reminder: the conversation around sex education isn’t just about what’s taught — it’s about who decides when, how, and why.