Our Mission
Our Mission is simple: Enhance the delivery of LGBTQ+ inclusive education in primary schools by providing teachers with the support they need.
All UK primary schools are required to teach inclusive Relationships Education and create settings where all children can thrive. The DfE’s Relationships Education guidance has been described as ‘vague’, particularly where LGBTQ+ topics are concerned. This lack of clarity has resulted in teachers feeling unsure about what needs to be taught and how the content should be delivered. That’s where we come in.
Inclusive Schools
Due to the ongoing homophobic, biphobic and transphobic hate-crimes in the UK, we realise that schools need to do more to create environments where all children feel accepted, valued, and celebrated. Statistics from Stonewall’s School Report (2017) found that almost half of all LGBTQ+ pupils still face bullying at school for their sexual orientation or gender identity. The report also shared the devastating statistic that more than 80% of trans young people have attempted suicide and 60% of non-trans lesbian, gay, bisexual, pansexual and queer young people have done the same. As teachers, we are responsible for the children in our care and we must do more to protect them. That’s why we have focused on the whole-school approach to inclusivity, to read more about the whole-school approach, its benefits, and how you can implement it in your school, click here.
Statistics provided by: https://www.stonewall.org.uk/resources/school-report-2017
Inclusive workplaces
It is also important to us that all members of school staff feel protected from discrimination and bullying. We encourage school leaders to create environments where LGBTQ+ teachers feel able to express their sexuality or gender identity freely without fear, just like their heterosexual and cisgender colleagues. Stonewall’s Work Report (2018) found that more than a third of LGBTQ+ employees have hidden their identity at work due to fear of discrimination. If you are an LGBTQ+ teacher, find out how you can be supported here.
To find out more about creating an inclusive workplace, visit: https://www.stonewall.org.uk/power-inclusive-workplaces
Stonewall Diversity Champions Programme
Many schools across the UK have worked with Stonewall’s inclusion experts to become certified Diversity Champions. To find out more about how your school can get on board, visit: https://www.stonewall.org.uk/diversity-champions-programme