Several families have reported that their young children were exposed to books discussing gender identity and same-sex relationships in the classroom without prior notification or consent from parents. The materials in question are part of the 'No Outsiders' program, an initiative used by hundreds of primary schools in England and Wales for compulsory relationships education and lessons on diversity and equality.
Parents have voiced concerns that the program introduces topics considered too mature for young children and presents a singular ideological viewpoint on sex and gender. One mother from London described her shock upon discovering that her daughter's Church of England primary school was using books like 'Introducing Teddy: A Gentle Story About Gender And Friendship,' which explores the concept of a transgender teddy bear being accepted by its friends. She stated that her concerns, along with those of other parents, were not adequately addressed by the school, who she felt misunderstood their objections.
This parent also noted that the following year, the school held an assembly about pronouns, after which two children reportedly came out as non-binary. While the parents stated they do not object to teaching children kindness and respect, their primary concern lies with the perceived ideological slant of the 'No Outsiders' program.
Another family from the east of England complained about a lack of warning regarding lessons linked to books such as 'And Tango Makes Three,' which depicts two male penguins adopting an egg. This book is reportedly used for children as young as four and five, despite being listed in the 'No Outsiders' curriculum for older pupils aged nine and ten. The parents lodged a formal complaint with the school and their local Member of Parliament, asserting that their requests for advance notice of 'No Outsiders' resources were ignored.
A family in Dorset reportedly sent over 17 letters and emails to their children's school across four years, expressing unease about its association with the LGBTQ+ charity Space Youth Project and events like 'Trans Family Day.' They claim an external trainer from the charity, known as 'Diversity Mel,' led an assembly without parental notification.
The 'No Outsiders' program was founded by Andrew Moffat MBE, who received his award for services to inclusion. The program aims to teach children about the Equality Act 2010 and British values. Schools can sign up and display the official logo for a fee, with free lesson and assembly plans available on its website. Mr. Moffat and the 'No Outsiders' organization were contacted for comment.