Commenting on the new move, education secretary Nicky Morgan asserted that the proposal was based on both sexual exploitation cases which have hit the headlines in recent months as well as the belief that children are under 'unimaginable pressures' in today's society.
The Personal, Social, Health and Economic Education organisation has proposed that the lessons be introduced and planned for mixed and single-sex state and independent schools.
Speaking to Sky News about the move, Nicky Morgan said: "We've seen this week with the issues about child sexual exploitation that growing up today is difficult and I think there are unimaginable pressures on young people, particularly on girls."
Delving into the practicalities associated with addressing the topic in schools, the education secretary continued: "And I do think it's right, again in an age-appropriate way, that issues around consent, when consent is given, when it is not given, when something goes way beyond the boundaries, who do you report to, it is important. And I know schools want to have the confidence and the tools to teach that well."
The lessons, which will deal with relationships, pornography and consent, are expected to be introduced after Easter.
