Porn and misogyny to be tackled in schools

The government plans a multi-million pound investment in schools in England which will address misogynistic behaviour among boys. This comes as Labour launches their initiative to tackle violence against women and girls (VAWG).

Teachers will be given training to spot early signs of misogynistic behaviour in boys from the age of 11. Those who are seen as being at risk of causing harm could then be sent on behavioural courses.

The £20 million investment calls for pupils to be taught about consent and coercion, sharing intimate images, and the difference between porn and real life relationships. There will also be teaching on deepfakes and online harassment.

Speaking to the Guardian, Deputy Prime Minister, David Lammy, said: “If we are serious about culture change – about building a country where women and girls can live free from fear, respected and safe – the battle begins with how we raise our boys,” noting that the issues of toxic masculinity and violence against women and girls were “bound together”.

“Today’s children are growing up in a digital world many parents barely recognise. A place where porn is easy to access, misogyny spreads fast, and loud, hateful voices tell our boys that control is strength and empathy is weakness.”

As the government launch their strategy to prevent violence against women and girls, David Lammy commented: “This strategy represents the largest crackdown to stop violence against women and girls in British history.” Safeguarding Minister, Jess Phillips, who has played a key role in shaping this new strategy, added: “A strategy is just words. And we know words are not enough. What matters is action.””

The Prime Minister, Sir Keir Starmer, said: “Every parent should be able to trust that their daughter is safe at school, online and in her relationships. But too often toxic ideas are taking hold early and going unchallenged.” He added: “This government is stepping in sooner - backing teachers, calling out misogyny, and intervening when warning signs appear to stop harm before it starts.”