The Coalition for Marriage has succeeded in placing its booklet, informing teachers of the implications of introducing same-sex marriage, in every school in Gloucestershire, it was reported in late April.
The 27-page guide contains sections headed ‘No promotion of sexual orientation’ and ‘Teachers are free to express opinions, but not to promote political policies’.
Advice has also been given to schools in the guidance issued by the Equality and Human Rights Commission (EHRC), which states:
• No school, or individual teacher, is under a duty to support, promote or endorse marriage of same sex couples.
• Teachers, other school staff, governors, parents and pupils are all free to hold whatever personal views they choose on marriage of same sex couples, including a view that marriage should only be between a man and a woman.
• Schools with a religious character can continue to deliver sex and relationship education in accordance with their particular religious doctrines or ethos.
Concerns have been raised about some of the guidance issued by the EHRC regarding chaplains.
