Teachers in Scotland can now access LGBT-inclusive educational resources aimed at promoting equality, reducing bullying and improving the experience of LGBT pupils.
Those behind the resources say Scotland has become the first country to “embed LGBT-inclusive education right across the curriculum”.
A range of services, including a website and teaching resources, has been launched to help support LGBT pupils and to include LGBT identities, issues and history in the curriculum.
Background: Scotland claims ‘world’s first’ inclusive LGBTI education
Long read: The LGBT bullying rife in schools endangers pupils
Teacher’s view: Why our LGBT journey isn’t over just yet
Ofsted: ‘Confused’ schools need help on LGBT teaching
The LGBT resources (available here) enable teachers, parents and pupils to find information designed to support young LGBT people, and there is also an online course for school staff to learn more about LGBT-inclusive education.
Jordan Daly, co-founder of the Time for Inclusive Education (TIE) charity, said: “I experienced bullying and prejudice at school for being gay and it had a detrimental impact on my confidence and wellbeing for some time.
“This new website, and the supporting resources, which have been co-developed with teachers across Scotland, will support teachers to take a proactive, educational approach to tackling prejudice.
“Most importantly, this work will empower young people and provide them with an opportunity I didn’t have at school - to feel valued, confident and proud of who they are.”
Today is a significant milestone in our work, and it’s been a tough road getting here. The launch of https://t.co/KTesbkuKhw signifies the first phase of implementation of this work in Scotland’s schools, and provides teachers with the tools to get it right for all learners. pic.twitter.com/KIej7qukrP
- Jordan Daly (@jcrdandaly) September 23, 2021
Children’s minister Clare Haughey said: “I am proud to say that Scotland is leading the way as the first country in the world to embed LGBT-inclusive education right across the curriculum.
Embedding LGBT-inclusive education in schools
“By doing so, we can help young people to reach their full potential and flourish in a diverse and inclusive society.
“The launch of this groundbreaking suite of resources for schools takes us another step forward in ensuring that our curriculum is as diverse as the young people who learn in our schools.
“The Scottish government, in partnership with [local authorities; body] Cosla, is determined to provide a fully inclusive education for Scotland’s children and young people.”
Cosla’s children and young people spokesman Stephen McCabe said: “Improving inclusion in our schools is a priority for local government.
“We welcome the materials published [on Thursday], which will assist schools, teachers and education staff to drive this important agenda forward, ensuring all children and young people receive the support they need.”
National Parent Forum of Scotland chair Margaret Wilson added: “We welcome the rollout of LGBT-inclusive education across the school curriculum.
“With other stakeholders, we have developed an information resource on LGBT-inclusive education for parents and carers to help them to support their children and ensure they have a positive educational experience, using an approach underpinned by children’s rights, kindness and respect.”
*The new resources can be found here
