Sexuality in the Primary School

Abstract

This article examines the premise that the primary school is an `asexual' environment and that young children are `innocent' and in need of protection from sex and sexuality. Interviews with children, parents and teachers are used to demonstrate that primary schools are institutions structured by gender and (hetero) sexuality and which, in their practices, construct heterosexualized masculinities and femininities. Particular attention is given to the contingent nature of `public' and `private' in the primary school and its implications for the appropriateness of sexuality. The issues raised have implications for feminist and lesbian/gay/bisexual activism around diversity and education and indicate important areas for future research.

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