Sex, drugs and citizenship

It is a debate that has raged for years, a talking point for the Government, unions, schools, colleges, teachers and parents – and I imagine will continue to be for many years to come: What subjects should and should not be compulsory in education?

Should young people learn about sex, drugs and lifestyle choices in the classroom or should these topics be discussed at home by parents and guardians?

I think we all agree that the traditional academic learning – reading, writing and arithmetic – amongst others – are necessary subjects and the key staple diet of any young person within education today.

However, as young people progress through senior school and even pursue further education, there is still the debate over what should be taught – sex, drugs, internet safety, money management?

David Grailey is chief executive of NCFE, the national awarding organisation