Church defends its ‘tutus for boys’ advice

CHRISTIANS have a duty to be welcoming, the Church of England said as it defended its “tutus for boys” advice.

In a blog posted online, Nigel Genders, chief education officer for the Church, said it was “incumbent on us as Christians to act to create welcoming schools where all pupils are honoured and respected members of their community”. The Church came under fire after it released advice for teachers in church schools which said that primary school-age boys and girls should be allowed to dress up in whatever they chose, regardless of their gender, including a “tutu, princess’s tiara and heels and/or the fireman’s helmet, tool belt and superhero cloak”.

Speaking to BBC Radio 2, Andrea Williams of pressure group Christian Concern, said: “I think it’s a tragic lost opportunity by the Church to put forward what it means to be made in the image of God – male and female.” She said gender “can’t change”.

Rev Genders said: “Our guidance is practical. It says that children should be able to explore their identities as they grow up.

“For smaller children this may involve getting the dressing box out.”