For now, this is my final piece on RSE, suggesting a few ways concerned parents might respond. Some of these suggestions extend beyond RSE to a potentially wider involvement in our communities — something the Brethren have been encouraging for many years.

Teach at home
It is clear that Church teachings have been prophetic. “The Family: A Proclamation To The World” published in 1995 was prescient. The recent “home-centred, Church supported” policy, emphasising the role of parents is just as significant. Teaching in the home is becoming more and more important, especially for children and teenagers, who are being indoctrinated in the playground, classroom, social media, and by movies and television.  Lessons at Church and in the home may be the only alternative voice they will hear concerning moral standards and family values.

Communicate with the school
Ask questions, clarify policy, understand the curriculum. Many schools publish their aims in a website — study it. If not, inquire at the school what their approach is. If you have concerns over what is being taught, discuss them with the teacher and/or headteacher. But don’t overreact.

Become Informed
We must not ignore what is going on in society. Neither should we trust unreliable information. Educating ourselves requires some effort. Subscribe to a few trusted online websites and news sources; read quality newspapers.

Become Involved
Ask questions, become a school governor or town counsellor, volunteer for committees, lobby your MP, respond to consultations and selected petitions, join a community group.

Be Civil and Respectful
All our communication should reflect gospel values, even when we disagree profoundly. We should be clear and firm in our views but remain civil and respectful even when others are not. Teach our children the same.