Primary school plans 'transgender day,' parents pull out kids

Some parents have decided to withdraw their kids from a school in East Sussex, England because of a class that explores gender issues. In particular, the school is planning to hold a "transgender day." 

St Mary the Virgin Primary School in Hartfield announced to parents during an information session on Monday of what they are planning. The discussions on gender issues is reportedly meant to help the kids, as young as four, to "explore" their sexuality. 

"As part of the national curriculum, we spend time talking to the children about British values of tolerance, respect and celebrating differences," headteacher Emma Maltby said, as quoted by Daily Mail UK. "One of the areas we will be discussing shortly is gender identity and we felt that it was important to involve parents in their child's learning by holding an information session."

"Transgender day" is planned to take place before Easter. This, however, caused some negative reaction from at least three parents.

"I don't want my daughter being exposed to all this nonsense," a mother is quoted as saying. "Kids need to be left alone when it comes to things like this, they just want to run around the playground not be told they need to 'think differently' about gender issues. The whole thing is ridiculous and I hope the head gets the message and scraps it."

While Maltby is optimistic and said that the response has been positive, The Daily Mail reports that at least 10 families apart from the three have spoken out about their concerns. One parent told East Grinstead Courier that they feel that their kids' welfare is threatened.

Maltby said that their school wants to give the kids a well-rounded education to help them become respectful of others, independent and responsible.

The classes are based on the Allsorts Youth Project, which lets kids who are questioning their sexuality to explore and be themselves. It supports LGBT and those who are yet unsure of their sexual orientation.