CST statement on DfE consultation on gender questioning children guidance

19th December 2023

The Government has today launched a consultation on new draft guidance for schools and colleges in relation to gender questioning children.

Confederation of School Trusts Chief Executive Leora Cruddas CBE said: "The contents of this consultation will need to be considered carefully. It is a sensitive area, and one where legal opinion is sometimes contested. Given this, we will be seeking appropriate legal advice in order to understand the legal position of schools and trusts. Leaders and trustees will need to be aware that this is draft guidance and may be subject to change following the consultation. We will say more to our members early in the new year.

"It is disappointing that the Government has chosen to publish this consultation as schools are breaking up, and with widespread media briefing ahead of the draft document's publication. This will make it very challenging to respond to any concerns felt by pupils, parents, and staff until schools return in the new year.

"We have repeatedly asked the Department not to publish major documents and consultations at the end of term and during holidays, which can add significant workload to school leaders and cause unnecessary confusion for staff and families.”

• The Guidance for Schools and Colleges: Gender Questioning Children consultation is open until 12 March 2024
• CST Platinum Partner Stone King has published a summary of the draft guidance