Petition · past parliament · Department for Education

Give parents the right to withdraw their child from relationship study lessons.

Closed 21 signatures

What the petition asks

Gender dysphoria is complex and involves deep psychological aspects, which we believe children lack the cognitive capacity to understand.
It is unproven that gender is a choice and not the same as biological sex, and teaching children this is contrary to the views of some conservative groups and religious teachings.

Currently, teachers must listen to parents’ concerns, but aren’t obliged to act on them. Religion is a protected characteristic under the equality act, gender identity is not. Disagreeing parents could give conflicting messages, which may create anxiety, distrust in teachers and confusion.

We request the right for parents to withdraw their children from lessons where teachings are against their beliefs or religion.

Timeline

17 Sep 2020 Petition opened for signatures
17 Mar 2021 Closed to new signatures

Key facts

Signatures 21
Status Closed
Department Department for Education
Opened 17 Sep 2020
Closed 17 Mar 2021

Follow this petition

Sign in to get an email when the government responds, a debate is scheduled or held, or the petition closes.

Source: the official petition page. Last checked 15 Jul 2026.