Lockhart Welcomes Education Minister’s Guidance on Transgender Issues in Schools
Upper Ban MP Carla Lockhart has welcomed the announcement by Education Minister Paul Givan of new guidance for schools on how to deal with transgender issues. The guidance is designed to put children’s wellbeing first, while also providing much-needed clarity and certainty for teachers, pupils, and parents.

Speaking on the matter, Carla Lockhart MP said:
“This is a sensible and much-needed decision from DUP Education Minister Paul Givan. For too long, schools and parents have been left without clear direction on how to navigate these sensitive matters. The Minister has now set out a framework that reflects biological reality, safeguards children, and ensures that teachers and pupils are not forced into positions that conflict with fact or conscience.
The guidance makes clear that boys are boys and girls are girls, and that this should be reflected in how schools operate. It establishes that changing rooms and toilets must be used according to biological sex, protecting the privacy and safety of all pupils. It also confirms that competitive sports will remain single-sex where appropriate, ensuring fairness in participation. Importantly, no pupil or teacher will be compelled to use pronouns that contradict biological fact.
This approach is rooted in truth, fairness, and the safeguarding of children. It provides schools, staff, and parents with the clarity they have been asking for. Common sense has prevailed, and I commend the Minister for taking this important step.”