Sex education will now be taught in all schools, as a result of new curriculum changes announced by the government.
This will extend to relationship education, particularly recognising the difference between a healthy and abusive relationship.
The introduction of relationship education is a result of domestic violence advocacy groups putting pressure on the government.
Previously, only schools run by a local authority had to offer compulsory sex education.
Private schools, free schools and academies were not obliged to to offer sex-ed classes.
However, parents can still withdraw children from lessons, and religious schools will be allowed teach the topic in accordance to their faith, according to The Metro.
Education Secretary Justine Greening said the current sex education curriculum was out of date, and issues such as sexting and cyber-bullying needed to addressed.
"I am today announcing my intention to put relationships and sex education on a statutory footing, so every child has access to age appropriate provision, in a consistent way," she said.
It's believed the primary school curriculum will focus on building healthy relationships and staying safe, while secondary school pupils will learn about healthy adult relationships.
There will be a full public consultation on the process and what ought to be taught later this year.
The Department for Education said the new curriculum could be in place as soon as September 2019.
