Birmingham School To Continue LGBT Relationship Lessons After Controversy

6 March 2019, 06:21 | Updated: 6 March 2019, 06:25

The school at the centre of a sex education storm will reportedly continue teaching about LGBT relationships after Easter.

Parkfield Community School in Birmingham had always planned on returning to its No Outsiders programme next term after a planned break from the inclusiveness and diversity lessons.

Hazel Pulley, CEO of Excelsior Multi Academy Trust, which runs the school - told BirminghamLive the plan had always been to block this half term out for teaching RE.

She added: "But, of course, during that time, our No Outsiders assemblies will continue and our welcoming No Outsiders ethos."

Her comments come after it was reported the school was temporarily ceasing the lessons following protests from parents who argue they are against their faith.

It has also been reported that more than 300 parents have signed a petition against the No Outsiders programme, after last week some took the decision to withdraw their children from school in protest.

Ms Pulley explained: "What we've got to remember is this is one school that has made a decision to use the No Outsiders programme, and all that it brings with it - through the right procedures of going to the governors and consultation with the parents we had about four years ago.

"Since then we have had various workshops to enable parents to see the lessons, and parents have been able to come into those through invitation through letter."

Last month Ofsted's chief inspector Amanda Spielman backed the teacher who started the scheme.

Assistant headteacher Andrew Moffat, has made the final of the Global Teacher Prize for his efforts to teach diversity.

Christian and Muslim parents have claimed the lessons promote the personal beliefs of Mr Moffat, who is gay.

But Amanda Spielman said it was important for children to learn about all aspects of society.