The principal of Illawong Public School stepped aside after year 6 students were exposed to explicit sex discussions

The principal of a southern Sydney public school has been sidelined after year six students were allegedly subjected to an explicit and sophisticated discussion about sex education.

The incident at Illawong Public School was brought to light on Friday by Member for Miranda Eleni Petinos, who told Parliament the community and parents were “extremely concerned and upset”.

According to Ms Petinos, the discussion took place on November 7 after students participated in the Amazing Me program, which has the support of parents.

NSW Shadow Finance Minister Eleni Petinos addresses the media at a press conference — The Member of Parliament for Miranda, Eleni Petinos, raised the issue in Parliament after concerned parents reached out. (MONKEY: Bianca De Marchi)

Students were reportedly told to submit questions anonymously, which were later answered and allegedly led to discussions about adult streaming websites and sexual acts.

“What parents did not agree to, however, was the discretion of a school staff member about an appropriate follow-up meeting,” Ms Petinos said.

“And every question students wanted answered by the individual.”

She said she “audibly gasped” at the content, with one parent telling her that “the person’s actions have furthered her child’s sexual knowledge far beyond the knowledge of a 12-year-old child”.

‘I’m sorry for those parents’

Education Minister Prue Car apologized to parents and said the strongest action has been taken.

“I’m sorry for those parents… the principal has been pushed aside,” she said.

“There is an exculpatory principle in place while the principal’s activities are subject to an investigation by the Department of Education, the Professional and Ethical Standards Unit – which is very serious – and I will allow that investigation to take place.”

Prue Car NSW Education Minister looks to the side as she stands outside at a press conference — Education Minister Prue Car said the investigation into the principal and the incident were very serious. (ABC News)

Ms Car acknowledged that although the school’s behavior was unacceptable, sex education was part of the curriculum.

“All parents of children who are in 5th or 6th grade know that part of that curriculum around that time is sex education,” she said.

“As difficult as that is for our children, and you must give permission for your child to participate, that part of the curriculum happens everywhere.”

Opposition Leader Mark Speakman called the school’s actions “reckless”, adding Ms Car should provide assurances that no other students in NSW were exposed to this type of content.

“An inappropriate discussion is worrying enough, but it is even more worrying when parents feel ignored and unsupported by the government’s response,” the opposition said in a statement.