Parents have pulled their children out of classes at a village primary
school over a 'transgender day' planned for pupils as young as four.
Three families have revealed they will not allow their children to St
Mary the Virgin Primary
School in Hartfield, East Sussex ,
for the classes, which are meant to help the pupils 'explore' their sexuality.
Up to 10 others have also spoken out about their concerns about the
plans, which were announced on Monday by headteacher Emma Maltby.
One mother, who asked not to be named, said the children should be 'left
alone'.
She said: 'I don't want my daughter being exposed to all this nonsense.
'Kids need to be left alone when it comes to things like this, they just
want to run around the playground not be told they need to "think
differently" about gender issues.
'The whole thing is ridiculous and I hope the head gets the message and
scraps it.'
Another parent, who also wished to remain anonymous, said there was
'great unease' among parents.
She told the East Grinstead Courier: 'Some parents have announced
their intention to keep their children from school on at least one day.
Three families have revealed they will not allow their children to
classes with up to 10 others also speaking out about their concerns about the
plans, which were announced on Monday by headteacher Emma Maltby.
'Parents have said that they feel the welfare of their children is under
threat from the instructions given in this document.'
The classes, based on the Brighton-based Allsorts Youth Project, were
proposed by the school in a bid to 'empower young people'.
The Allsorts website states that it creates a 'safe space for trans and
gender questioning children', and allows kids to 'explore and be themselves'.
It also says the programme will give kids 'a chance to meet other
trans/gender questioning children', as well as taking part in 'fun games'.
Ms Maltby defended her decision to hold the 'transgender day' before the
Easter holidays, saying it was important to raise gender issues.
She said: 'As part of the national curriculum, we spend time talking to
the children about British values of tolerance, respect and celebrating
differences.
'One of the areas we will be discussing shortly is gender identity and we
felt that it was important to involve parents in their child's learning by
holding an information session.
'We have had a very positive response to the event and the opportunity to
learn more about this relevant topic, although three families have chosen to
withdraw their children from school.'
She added that the school tried to give pupils a 'well-rounded education',
which would help them 'become responsible, independent people able to respect
others'.
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