Supporting LGBTQ+ students in schools is a crucial aspect of creating an inclusive and safe learning environment. As educators, you have the unique opportunity to foster acceptance, understanding, and respect in your classrooms.
Our blog will provide tips and resources to help you create a safe space for LGBTQ+ students. Whether you’re looking to make your teaching content more inclusive, provide a welcoming classroom atmosphere, or address specific challenges, we’re here to guide you with advice and strategies to take forward.
Educate yourself and those around you
To properly understand the issues LGBTQ+ students face in school, educators will need to learn about LGBTQ+ identities, experiences, and challenges in today’s world.
Knowledge is power, and accepting the need to seek out resources is a great starting point. Find opportunities for professional development in your understanding of LGBTQ+ challenges, like attending workshops or investing some training allocation into online resources. Stonewall’s guide on supporting LGBTQ+ children and young people is recommended by our CEO, Liam Rahman.
It’s also important to acknowledge our own biases and address those. Be aware of how you interact with your LGBTQ+ students and be open to learning to adapt.
Tackle bullying and discrimination at school
Address discriminatory comments and behaviour towards sexual orientation or gender identity. This will not only demonstrate the zero-tolerance policy taken by the school, but it’ll reassure your LGBTQ+ students that they are recognised by staff and peers.
Review your schools’ anti-bullying policies and ensure clear expectations are set for the treatment of the LGBTQ+ community. Teachers can support LGBTQ+ students in school by making sure these policies are implemented.
Use inclusive language and content
Incorporating LGBTQ+ inclusive language into your teaching will encourage a sense of belonging among LGBTQ+ students. A few ways you could do this are listed below.
LGBTQ+ themes and characters – make sure the LGBTQ+ community is represented in the literature and resources you provide to students. Having visible themes and characters will empower LGBTQ+ students to feel seen and know their experiences are being shared. An LGBTQ+ training and teaching pack for both primary and secondary schools is available through The Proud Trust.
Inclusion in RSE – the need to include LGBTQ+ experiences in RSE as part of the Curriculum for Wales is vital. Discussing this openly within the students’ relationship and sex education is a crucial way to promote understanding and respect for each other.
Provide access to resources and networks
Supporting LGBTQ+ students can go further than the classroom. Making sure students are aware of places they can go to talk outside of school or family and friends helps to look after your learners’ wellbeing.
We’ve listed some examples of resources and networks you can provide access to for your LGBTQ+ students.
LGBTQ+ helplines: Switchboard’s national support line is operated by LGBTQ+ volunteers providing a safe space for anyone to discuss how they’re feeling, including sexuality, gender identity, sexual health, and emotional wellbeing. They provide both online chats and a phoneline depending on what feels most comfortable for the individual.
Equal Academy also provides an in-depth course for teachers on safeguarding students at school.
Advice and support for family and friends: Have resources like FFLAG available for parents and guardians to support them in encouraging a sense of belonging and security. They can play a crucial role in creating safe spaces for their loved ones. Actions like using correct pronouns, listening without judgement, and actively educating themselves about LGBTQ+ issues can make a significant impact.
Supporting LGBTQ+ students in schools is an ongoing effort that requires empathy, understanding, and proactive measures. By implementing inclusive language, incorporating diverse content into your curriculum, and fostering an open, accepting classroom environment, you can make a profound difference in your students’ lives.
Every small step you take towards inclusivity helps create a safer and more welcoming space for all students. Let’s continue working together to ensure that every student feels valued, respected, and empowered to be their authentic selves.
At Equal Education Partners, we recognise the importance of LGBTQ+ role models for young people. We’re committed to enabling schools to enhance inclusion in their classrooms and staffroom through supporting LGBTQ+ staff members in accessing and thriving within the education profession. See our available jobs and join the Equal team today.
Happy Pride Month!