Primary and secondary pupils in England will learn about relationships, keeping safe online and looking after their mental health as part of compulsory lessons from September next year.
Children in primary schools will have relationships education and this will be broadened to relationships and sex education in secondary schools.
Health education for all ages will also be part of the curriculum in England. Parents will still have the right to withdraw their child up to age 15. However, head teachers are expected to talk to parents who wish to exclude their child from these lessons, "discussing with the parents the benefits of receiving this important education and any detrimental effects that withdrawal might have on the child".
Under new compulsory health education lessons, primary children will be taught about how to look after their own mental wellbeing and also to recognise when their classmates might be struggling. They will cover why simple self-care, such as getting enough sleep and spending time outdoors and with friends, is important.
Teaching about the excessive use of electronic devices and limiting time spent online is also included.
In terms of relationships education, primary children will also be taught age-appropriate online safety - including what to do if they come across things they are uncomfortable with, the importance of respect for others even when posting anonymously and the risks of talking to people on the internet who they don't know in real life.
Secondary-age pupils will also have health education, focusing on mental health. The curriculum will aim to ensure that young people can spot the signs of common mental illnesses, such as anxiety and depression in themselves or others.
They will learn how to discuss their emotions accurately and sensitively and how to access professional help. They will also cover the impact of alcohol and drugs on physical and mental health.
In terms of sex and relationships, lessons will cover online safety topics, including the serious risks of sharing private photos, the impact of viewing explicit or harmful content - including how to report it and receive support.
Lessons will cover how the internet can promote an unhealthy view of sex and relationships.
The guidance says that pupils need to understand "that some people are LGBT [lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender], that this should be respected in British society, and that the law affords them and their relationships recognition and protections".
The guidance adds: "Schools should make decisions about what it is appropriate to teach on this subject and when, based on the age, development and religious backgrounds of their pupils, and should involve their parents in these decisions."
Secondary-age pupils will also be taught about female genital mutilation (FGM) - focusing on awareness, the availability of support networks and reminding them that it is illegal.
