This is the document referred to in media reports - www.gov.scot/publications/supporting-transgender-young-people-schools-guidance-scottish-schools/pages/2/
In terms of parents not being informed, this initial passage refers only for it being recommended to gain consent from parents
'Recognising the rights of all parents and carers, it is recommended that consent is obtained from all of those with parental responsibilities for those young people under 16. '
However, it is later stated that-
'• If the young person has not told their family, school staff may want to discuss the most likely reaction with the young person. This will allow the teacher and the young person to discuss whether sharing information is in the young person’s best interests, and if so, what information to share and with whom.
• Offer to arrange a meeting with parents or carers; agree this with the young person in advance of the meeting and mutually agree key information to be shared in the
discussion and by whom.'
Which gives the impression that parents may well not be advised of social transitioning.
From the document - 'There is no law in Scotland which states that only people assigned male at birth can use men's toilets and changing rooms, or that only people assigned female can use women's
toilets and changing rooms. This is instead done by social convention' which may come as a surprise to many people. There have been anecdotal reports of girls limiting liquids in order not to use the mixed sex toilets which are gradually being introduced into schools.
However, there is a requirement for single sex accommodation in terms of residential trips under the exemptions of the Equality Act 2010, (fairplayforwomen.com/equality-act-2010_womens-rights/) so it is slightly startling to read -
'• If a transgender young person wants to share a room with other young people who
share their gender identity, they should be able to do so, as long as the rights of all
those involved are considered and respected.
• If any young person, including a transgender young person, is concerned about sharing a room with others, you could consider making alternative arrangements, including giving them their own room where appropriate.
• If any young person voices a concern, this should be considered - responses should be reasonable and proportionate, taking into account the rights of all young people.'
as its not at all difficult to envisage a young person who is uncomfortable with the situation to be 'encouraged' into the 'correct inclusive mindset', particularly given the language throughout this document.
In terms of PE lessons, the document states-
'We recommend:
• if PE classes are organised by sex, a transgender young person should be allowed to take part within the group which matches their gender identity. For a non- binary young person, ask them which group they would feel most comfortable being with
• that any school competition should take account of the age and stage of development of the participants
• for inter-school competitions, the same approaches to ensure fairness and safety
should apply. It may be helpful to a young person if you speak to the equivalent staff in the other school(s) to let them know there is a transgender young person in your team/competition, but only with the young person's consent.'
In Primary school aged children, mixed sex sports are not a issue to any great extent. With the effects of testosterone when a boy goes through puberty, this will create a disadvantage for girls. Teenage boys can easily beat women's world records - www.boysvswomen.com
Is there a policy advising on how to deal with sexism and misogyny against girls in educational establishments? There may well not be as the Scottish Government's Hate Crime Bill does not include women and girls as a group to be protected against Hate.