Schools to teach children how to resist misogyny and Andrew Tate's influence

In the UK, new school guidance was published on Tuesday, July 16, 2025, aiming to combat misogyny and incel culture among children through the relationships, sex, and health education (RSHE) framework. The guidance comes in response to alarming statistics revealing that misogynistic attitudes have reached epidemic levels, with over half of young people aged 11-19 reportedly witnessing misogynist comments. Education Secretary Bridget Phillipson emphasized the importance of equipping children with the skills to defy negative online influences and find positive role models. From September 2026, schools will implement guidelines to teach children about healthy attitudes while avoiding stigmatization of boys. This initiative highlights the urgent need for addressing the increasing issue of sexism and promoting inclusivity in educational settings. This new framework also addresses various topics including sexism, LGBT+ rights, and the implications of pornography on young minds. Research suggesting that a significant percentage of primary school-aged girls have encountered explicit material online serves as a stark reminder of the digital challenges students face. Critics have pointed out that some children are exposed to harmful stereotypes and unfounded beliefs about gender, which necessitates a structured and educational approach in schools. This guidance seeks to initiate necessary discussions and foster a more respectful school environment, aligning with Labour's pledge to tackle violence against women and improve overall attitudes among young boys. The guidance, welcomed by various educational leaders, stresses the need to provide young boys with positive male role models, combating online influences from figures like Andrew Tate. Teachers will be permitted to sensitively address topics that might arise from online exposure, enabling a more relevant and responsive educational dialogue. While concerns regarding age-appropriate content persist, the new directives focus on age-appropriate discussions and mental health education, ensuring children are guided towards resilience and grit. In light of these developments, the implications extend beyond individual classrooms and highlight a broader societal responsibility to educate children on respectful behavior and inclusivity. As schools prepare to implement these new guidelines, the role of parents and educators becomes critical in shaping a future generation that actively resists negativity and embraces inclusivity in all aspects of life.