In new anti-bullying guidance to its 4,700 schools, Church of England said all children should be free to wear outfits ranging from tiaras to tutus, firefighter’s helmets and superhero capes.
The Church issued the advice amid reports of high levels of homophobic bullying in schools.
Schoolboys as young as five should be able to wear tiaras and tutus without facing criticism.The new guidelines from the Church was issued to combat homophobic, biphobic and transphobic bullying among young people.
The Church said schools should offer children a safe space for play and exploration, and that their behaviour should not be called “problematic just because it does not conform to gender stereotypes”.
The Church added, “Children should be at liberty to explore the possibilities of who they might be without judgement or derision.”
The report makes 12 recommendations for the Church’s schools to ensure clear anti-bullying policies and “an inclusive vision for education”.
The Church acknowledged that sexuality and gender identity are divisive issues among Christians, adding: “No matter what the views of the school community members, pupils must be protected and bullying must be challenged.”
