Diversity, Equity and Inclusion - Staff Training Session on LGBTQ+ Inclusion

All staff, teaching staff and support staff, came together for a training session on LGBTQ+ inclusion (Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer + more). A teacher shared their personal story of growing up LGBTQ+ and what teachers can do to help. Staff tested their knowledge of recent history - did you know same-sex marriage became legal in this country as recently as 2014? We also learnt about some language which can be useful for teachers to be aware of, such as ‘heteronormative’ which means assuming that relationships will always be between boys and girls - something we try not to assume, and ‘nonbinary’ for someone who doesn’t identify as completely male or completely female. We also discussed some useful ways to respond when students have questions about LGBTQ+ issues and ways to encourage all our students to be kind. We hope to get to a place where LGBTQ+ identities are seen as a normal part of our community, and LGBTQ+ students and families feel fully included and welcomed by everybody, staff, students and parents alike.