FGM and harmful practices

Overview

Our teaching on FGM and harmful practices addresses forms of abuse that affect specific communities — and that require specific, culturally sensitive education.

This topic covers female genital mutilation, forced marriage, and honour-based abuse. We explain what these practices are, why they happen, and why they are illegal in the UK. We do this without stigmatising any community or culture — because safeguarding is about protecting individuals, not judging groups.

The aim is to equip young people with the knowledge to protect themselves and others. That means understanding the warning signs, knowing their rights, and knowing exactly how to get help — including the specific services and legal protections that exist. For some students, this may be the only time anyone clearly tells them that what they're being told is "tradition" is, in fact, a crime.

Key learning outcomes

By the end of lessons on this topic, students will:

• Understand what FGM is, including the different types and the immediate and long-term harms
• Recognise the warning signs that someone may be at risk of FGM or forced marriage
• Know that FGM, forced marriage, and honour-based abuse are illegal in the UK
• Understand the difference between cultural practice and abuse
• Learn about the specific support services and legal protections available
• Develop the confidence to seek help or report concerns without fear
• Approach the topic with sensitivity while being clear about the harm involved

Why teaching about FGM and harmful practices matters

FGM and forced marriage are happening in the UK. They are not distant issues confined to other countries. Young people at risk are sitting in classrooms right now, and for many of them, school is the safest place they have.

These sessions exist because silence costs lives. When we educate all young people about these practices — not just those we assume are at risk — we create a wider network of awareness. A friend who knows the signs. A teacher who asks the right question. A young person who understands that what's being planned for them is wrong, and that help is available.