From the perspective of a transgender student navigating the complexities of the English education system, the current edition of "Keeping Children Safe in Education" (KCSIE 2026) does not offer the protection or dignity that all students deserve. Daily, I experience the challenges and distress of being forced to use facilities that do not align with my gender identity. These policies are not only harmful but deeply isolating, making school environments feel unsafe and unwelcoming for countless students like me.

The current guidelines of KCSIE fail to adequately protect transgender and intersex students. Rather than supporting our identities, they contribute to an environment where outing trans students seems permissible, and subtly facilitate the erasure of intersex minors. This is not just an issue of personal discomfort but a violation of basic human rights (including Equality Act 2010) and dignity, which no student should have to endure.

According to Stonewall’s School Report 2022, nearly 45% of transgender young people have attempted suicide, and more than 84% have self-harmed. These statistics paint a harrowing picture of the mental health crisis among transgender youths, exacerbated by unsupportive school policies. Furthermore, a report by InterACT highlights that the lack of awareness and erasure of intersex issues in educational spaces further marginalises these young people.

Our goal is to urge the UK Department for Education to immediately revise the KCSIE guidelines to promote inclusivity for gender-diverse students. This revision should include sensitive handling of students' gender identities, ensuring the use of preferred pronouns and access to facilities that align with one's gender identity. Moreover, there should be specific guidelines to prevent the outing of transgender students, safeguarding their privacy and dignity.

By signing this petition, you are advocating for a change that acknowledges the diversity of student experiences and needs, fostering a school environment where every child feels safe and respected. We are calling on educators, policymakers, and the larger community to stand with us in supporting the rights of transgender and intersex students. It’s time to end the practice of outing and erasure.

Please join us in urging the UK government to initiate these necessary changes. Sign the petition and be part of a movement committed to justice, inclusion, and respect for all students.