Call to Delay Debate on School Gender Education Policy Until After Election

A former chief minister has proposed delaying potential changes to how schools teach children about sexual identity.

Deputy Ian Gorst has submitted an amendment asking politicians to postpone discussion of the policy until after the June election, rather than proceeding with a debate scheduled for Tuesday 24 March.

The States are set to decide whether to revise the current education policy, which includes guidance on teaching topics such as transgender rights and related issues.

Gorst said the subject has proven “extremely divisive” in other jurisdictions, with people on both sides becoming deeply entrenched in their views and less willing to consider differing perspectives.

He suggested that an independent external review could help States Members find common ground and support a more balanced revision of the policy. Emphasizing the importance of collaboration in a small community, he noted that working together is often the most effective way to reach agreement.

According to Gorst, such a review would allow stakeholders to contribute toward guidance that prioritizes children’s wellbeing while gaining broader support.

He added that completing the review by December 2026 would effectively bring forward an already planned review by the Children, Young People, Education and Skills department, currently scheduled for May 2027.

Earlier this year, in January, Education Minister Rob Ward said the existing guidance already provides clear standards on behaviour, bullying prevention, and cooperative decision-making involving families and professionals.