CAMPAIGNERS last night warned that children in faith schools could be left disadvantaged if sex education classes are taught in line with religious beliefs.

Children as young as seven will be taught about the facts of life under new recommendations to make the subject compulsory.

But schools will be allowed to make sure that their approach is “in line with the context, values and ethos of the school”.

It will mean that children at Catholic schools could be taught that their religion frowns on the use of contraceptives at the same time as learning about condoms.

Faith groups have cautiously welcomed the plans and the National Union of Teachers gave the recommendations their backing, saying that it was vital that all schools had the flexibility to negotiate with parents at a local level.

But sexual health campaigners fear children could get distorted information.

Marie Stopes spokesman Tony Kerridge said: “We think there should be careful monitoring of how they use that caveat and that they provide a balanced education, otherwise it will put those children at a disadvantage.”