INTRODUCTION
For concrete steps and suggestions on how to create a safe school, Stonewall, a UK-based organisations, is a great place to start. Stonewall’s motto is ‘acceptance without exception’. Their key priorities are about empowerment, transforming institutions, changing hearts and minds and changing laws. In the UK they are very well-known but if you work in an organisation or context where there needs to be a culture change around the acceptance of LGBT+ people, it is worth contacting them. They provide training for schools and teachers at primary and secondary level and provide research, resources and materials to support teachers in school. You can find out more by clicking here.
Since Stonewall is a valued and visible player in the UK’s education system, it is in prime position to encourage schools to step up their efforts. One of their initiatives, Educate and Celebrate, allows schools to benefit from training, gain an award, access resources and be part of the change movement by engaging in the sessions offered by the charity. They provide examples of books, lesson plans, songs and guidance that will support any school looking to make a difference and ensure all children can be themselves in a supportive, inclusive environment.
Since Stonewall is a valued and visible player in the UK’s education system, it is in prime position to encourage schools to step up their efforts. One of their initiatives, Educate and Celebrate, allows schools to benefit from training, gain an award, access resources and be part of the change movement by engaging in the sessions offered by the charity. They provide examples of books, lesson plans, songs and guidance that will support any school looking to make a difference and ensure all children can be themselves in a supportive, inclusive environment.
DISCUSSION QUESTIONS
- When you were in school, was there a school policy on LGBT? Were LGBT issues discussed, was there someone to talk to? Did you ever think about these issues, or was it not something you were aware of?
- What is your institution doing to create a safe environment for LGBT pupils?
- What could you, as a (future) teacher, do to create a safe environment for LGBT pupils?
- Some parents might not be comfortable with ‘LGBT-friendly’ schools. How could a school respond to potential criticism? How would you respond to parents who complain or are concerned about LGBT being brought into the classroom?
STORIES
Click here for an interview with 'Diversity Munich', an LGBTQ project in Munich, Germany.
RESOURCES
For resources, please review our database or turn to Module 2, Unit 4, where you will find a list of support organisations.
