Local guidelines for transgender students in Jersey may be reviewed

Wednesday 10 May 2023

The Minister for Children and Education may consider developing additional guidance for transgender students in Jersey – as the UK says it will not force single-sex schools to accept transgender students.

The UK Government is expected to announce new guidelines stating that single-sex schools aren't legally obliged to admit transgender pupils.

The advice, first reported by The Telegraph, is currently being drawn up by UK Education Secretary, Gillian Keegan, and Equalities Minister, Kemi Badenoch.

It is expected that headteachers of all-girls schools will be told they can reject pupils who are born male but now identify as female, without fear of legal action.

The same rules will apply for all-boys schools receiving applications from those born female who now identify as male.

Moreover, UK school leaders will likely be told they can refuse to use the pronouns demanded by a pupil.

In response, Jersey's Minister for Children and Education, Deputy Inna Gardiner, explained: “While there is no equivalent formal guidance for schools in Jersey at this time, I am aware of the discussions taking place in the UK, and the sensitivities around them.

"I will review the latest guidance in England and consider what additional guidance we may need to develop for Jersey. The ministerial team have an inclusive ethos and are committed to ensuring that every child feels included at school.”