Welcome to Amplified.
This a new opinion column that seeks to amplify the voices of unheard young people, giving them a platform to share their views and ideas.
Any articles produced under the ‘Amplified’ tag are not written by Hadyn Cutler MYP and do not represent his views or beliefs. Publishing articles should not be seen as an endorsement and the views expressed in the article should be considered to be solely the views of the article author. Any complaints should be sent to hadyncutler.myp@pm.me.
This post may be distressing to some readers. Discretion is advised. Mentions of: child sexual exploitation
In light of the recent announcement to ban sex education for those aged 9 and younger, I feel it is important for folks like myself to speak out in opposition of a policy that serves only to make those who are already vulnerable, more so.
I will begin by sharing my own story. I was sexually abused a lot as a child, starting as early as 7-8 years of age. I did not know right from wrong in terms of adults trying to exploit me, and I did not learn until I was 13 years old. My abuse came in different forms – both physical and online, and despite all the negativity I felt from it, I had no knowledge of it being something that was wrong, at least when it happened to me. I was not taught to be aware of older men attempting physical contact, I was not taught to say no to manipulation, I was not shown what this could look like in any way. I couldn’t reach out because I didn’t know I needed to, let alone if I’d be listened to or helped.
Sex education is not ‘adult’, as contradictory as the name may sound – it is not teaching about sex in specific, maybe recreationally is the appropriate word, it is not teaching sex as adults may understand the word. Sex education involves teaching the next generation autonomy, consent, and changes that they will undergo as they age. This knowledge is vital to a flourishing young mind, it is fundamental to the safety of all children, especially those that are marginalised. It is crucial that this is taught within the school curriculum, as there are countless cases worse than mine involving children far younger. Banning this education serves only to harm.
That’s not to mention the section about banning the teaching of ‘gender ideology’. This is once again a setback to transgender folk, can easily be argued as a white supremacist talking point due to our Western vision of gender and sex, and is generally nonsensical. This policy is sensationalist, oppressive and above all entirely immoral.
I did not learn the meaning of the word ‘consent’ until I was 13 – the next generation must understand its’ meaning fully. To take away this education is to leave a nation vulnerable. It is not acceptable.
By October Smith (they/he)
Stop It Now offers support to those affected by child sexual exploitation. If you have been affected by the issues discussed in this post, you can find their site here – www.stopitnow.org.uk
Hadyn Cutler MYP 
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