Our Approach

Teaching children about LGBTQ+ identities, including lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender individuals, is increasingly recognized as important for fostering inclusivity and understanding. In the UK, primary schools are encouraged to include LGBTQ+ content in lessons about different family types, while secondary schools are required to teach about sexual orientation and gender identity. This can be integrated into subjects like Relationships, Sex, and Health Education (RSHE), as well as through literature, storytelling, and discussions about diversity. 

Here’s a more detailed look at how this can be approached:
1. Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) and Primary School:
  • Diverse Families:
    Introduce books and activities that showcase diverse family structures, including those with same-sex parents.
  • Gender Stereotypes:
    Use books and discussions to explore gender stereotypes and challenge them, promoting the idea that it’s okay to be different.
  • Storytelling and Creativity:
    Utilize books with LGBTQ+ themes as inspiration for creative writing and art projects.
  • Language Development:

    Teach children that “they,” “them,” and “their” can be used to refer to individuals, including those who may not identify with traditional gender pronouns. 

You can watch this video to learn about teaching inclusivity at schools from a young age:

2. Upper Primary and Secondary School:
  • Prejudice and Discrimination:
    Introduce concepts like homophobia and transphobia, and discuss the impact of harmful language and actions. 

  • LGBTQ+ History and Culture:
    Incorporate learning about LGBTQ+ figures, social movements, and activism into relevant subjects. 

  • Relationships and Sexuality:
    Integrate discussions about different types of relationships, including those between people of the same sex, into RSHE. 

  • Consent and Respect:
    Emphasize the importance of consent, respect, and healthy relationships for all individuals, regardless of their sexual orientation or gender identity. 

3. Key Considerations:
  • Age-appropriateness:
    Tailor the content and language to the developmental stage of the children. 

  • Parental Involvement:
    Communicate with parents about the school’s approach to LGBTQ+ education and address any concerns they may have. 

  • Staff Training:
    Ensure that teachers and other staff members are equipped to teach about LGBTQ+ topics with sensitivity and accuracy. 

  • Creating a Safe and Inclusive Environment:
    Foster a school culture where all students feel safe, respected, and valued for who they are. 

This video discusses teaching children about LGBT+ history and inclusivity in education:

By incorporating LGBTQ+ inclusive education into the curriculum and school culture, schools can help create a more welcoming and accepting environment for all students, while also promoting understanding and respect for diversit