Asked by: Tracey Crouch (Conservative - Chatham and Aylesford)
Question to the Department for Education:
To ask the Secretary of State for Education, if he will take steps to ensure that cancer awareness and awareness of cancer symptoms is covered in schools.
Answered by Elizabeth Truss
Teaching about cancer awareness is important for all young people and schools may include cancer awareness as part of their personal, social, health and economic (PSHE) education. The PSHE Association has produced a suggested programme of study as guidance for teachers, and continues to highlight other sources of expertise.
Schools may also teach about cancer awareness in other areas of the curriculum, for example, the science curriculum requires pupils to learn about the effects of drugs on their bodies, and the importance of physical education. In design and technology, schools may highlight the importance of nutrition and a healthy diet.