Letter: Sex and the good citizen

JUDITH JUDD reports ("Schools to teach citizenship lessons", 21 February) that the Government is near to finalising its guidelines on citizenship education and other aspects of preparation for adult life. We hope that due emphasis will be given to sex and personal relationships; it is difficult to participate as a citizen if you are not able to manage your personal life effectively.

It is strange that Chris Woodhead is concerned that there is a conflict between personal and social education and academic achievement. Self-confidence, the ability to communicate, negotiate and understand others and the world are central to good academic achievement and to a successful adult life.

We should not be discussing whether personal and social education should be part of children's education entitlement but how we are to support schools and teachers to ensure it is available to all children when they enter primary school.

ANNE WEYMAN

FPA, London N1