Schools are "confused" over what teachers should do if students try to "socially transition", the children’s commissioner claims.
Dame Rachel de Souza has criticised the Government for not releasing trans guidance for schools - which was promised before the end of the summer term.
The commissioner claims head teachers are being forced to come up with their own policies as schools face “real confusion” about how to respond to children questioning their gender identity.
The delay comes after a Cabinet disagreement over whether a law change is required to stop children from changing their gender pronouns at school.
The commissioner claims head teachers are being forced to come up with their own policies as schools face 'real confusion' about how to respond to children questioning their gender identity
PA
Schools across Britain are left awaiting information including whether they can stop boys who identify as girls from using girls’ toilets or joining girls’ sports teams.
De Souza has launched a new campaign to speak to children ahead of the next general election as she warns ministers that it is “shortsighted to neglect the needs of children”.
“I’m disappointed that the guidance isn’t out. We need that guidance," she told The Telegraph.
“I think this has got to be one of the most challenging issues for heads, because it’s a fast-emerging issue.
LATEST DEVELOPMENTS:
"And I think nobody feels that they don’t want to support any individual or any child, but they also feel strongly about needing clarity over safeguarding issues.
“As a headteacher, I could not give your child a spoon of medicine without your permission, and we know that in the absolute best-case scenario, parents, children and schools need to work together really closely.
"And at the moment I think there’s real confusion, so we need those guidelines.”
Rishi Sunak is said to be fearful over the Cabinet split on whether a law change is needed to ban “social transitioning” - where students are treated as if they are the opposite gender.
The delay comes after a Cabinet disagreement over whether a law change is required to stop children from changing their gender pronouns at school
PAA Government spokesman said: “The Education Secretary is working closely with the minister for women and equalities to provide guidance to schools and colleges.
“Given the complexity and sensitivity of the issue, we’re taking the time to make sure any guidance we provide is as clear as possible.
“We’ve been repeatedly clear about the importance of biological sex and we advise that schools and colleges proceed with caution – prioritising the safeguarding and wellbeing of all children and involving parents in decisions relating to their child.”
