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