Covering LGBTQ+ content in your curriculum

Find out how to weave LGBTQ+ content into your curriculum to make it more inclusive and meet the DfE's expectations.

Last reviewed on 28 May 2026See updates
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Contents
  1. Start by auditing your current provision
  2. How to meet the new RSHE guidance
  3. Incorporating the new RSHE guidance into your curriculum
  4. Consult stakeholders before making any changes
  5. See how to create an LGBTQ+-inclusive curriculum

Please note that any mention of commercial products in this article is not an endorsement by The Key.

The DfE's updated relationships, sex and health education (RSHE) guidance isn't statutory until September 2026, but you can start following it now if you wish (this is laid out on page 4 of the DfE's consultation outcome, and was confirmed to us by a DfE representative).

The changes include:

  • Including same-sex parents/carers when discussing healthy relationships, including same-sex relationships (primary schools)
  • Covering sexual heath and STIs in a way that's relevant for all pupils, including pupils who are gay, lesbian, bisexual and/or trans (secondary schools)
  • Teaching "the facts and the law" around biological sex and gender reassignment (all schools)

Find more details below in 'Incorporating the new RSHE guidance into your curriculum'.

You can read more about the new RSHE requirements in our other article. 

Start by auditing your current provision

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