Celebrating diversity is crucial for schools, here’s how to do it…

The month of June sees the celebration of Pride. A 2022 NEU Children and adults of different faiths, communities, backgrounds and abilities are all unique and should be made to feel special and to be celebrated.

This is one of many important awareness events which encourages conversations and raises awareness about our differences.

At Classroom Secrets, we have created resources to understand the meaning of Pride and to encourage discussion about different family situations. Our resources all have an overarching theme of being proud of who you are, regardless of who you love. No matter who we are, it is important to show respect and kindness to everyone.

We know that making schools as inclusive as possible is essential to ensure all children and staff feel comfortable and proud of who they are.

In view of this we wanted to share some best practice examples of how to encourage inclusivity for all staff within your school.

Have visible role models

Having role models is crucial for the development of every child. It's vital for children to witness individuals who are similar to them in society, as it makes them feel acknowledged, motivated, and encouraged to embrace their true selves. Talking about role models who are from different religions, who may have different learning challenges or are from different communities such as LGBTQ+ will have a positive impact on all children and encourage them to feel part of the school community.

Role models don't necessarily have to be famous celebrities or historical figures. They can be individuals within our own communities and schools. In fact, as early as 1990 we already knew that a child's earliest sense of self-worth is in large part closely related to his or her interactions with close and familiar attachment figures (Cassidy, 1990). By ensuring that children have the opportunity to see a wide range of role models being celebrated, we can foster a sense of inclusion and equality for all.

Supportive SLT and management

Did you know that according to a Stonewall Work Report, over 33% of LGBTQIA+ employees have felt the need to conceal their identity at work because they were afraid of facing discrimination?

It takes time and effort for cultural change to take place. Having a dedicated staff team is crucial in creating an inclusive school environment. With leadership from senior management and collaboration with teachers, students, and parents, a comprehensive approach to inclusion can be established throughout the entire school.

Little gestures in your daily life, like wearing a rainbow lanyard or displaying an LGBTQIA+ flag, can make a big difference in showing support for the LGBTQIA+ community. By doing so, you're letting students and colleagues know that you're a trustworthy ally at school.

Remember to consider the frameworks, policies, and laws that are in place to ensure the education and safety of LGBTQIA+ individuals. Reflect on how your school's policies, including anti-bullying and uniform regulations, can be more inclusive.

Stamp out bullying

Create a culture where bullying is unacceptable. We know that bullying is wrong and damages individual children.  There is no legal definition of bullying. However, it is

It's important to never overlook offensive language. Instead of simply telling students not to use it in your presence, make sure you explain why they shouldn't use it. Teach them that using words like 'gay' as an insult is considered homophobic bullying and will be addressed accordingly.

Make sure you have a clear policy that includes how best to react to bullying or hateful language and ensure staff know the policy too, or even raise a concern if you feel your current policy doesn’t best support vulnerable groups

Celebrate family or community news

Schools play a crucial role in their surrounding communities, serving as a valuable resource and a centre for community events. Engaging with parents and caregivers is essential for the success of school activities, especially those related to LGBTQIA+ inclusive education. Collaborating with local community groups and leaders can also bring fresh ideas and resources to the school community. Invite members of different communities into your classroom to explain different festivals and celebrations and send resources home ahead of time.

Use books which celebrate diversity

When considering the texts you choose across the year think about ensuring some of those books feature characters that are traditionally under-represented in children’s books.  These may include characters with minority ethnic main characters, books that celebrate different families and books with representations of cultural diversity and neurodiversity. This will help ensure all children enjoy reading books where they can see themselves, their experience and their families.

The following places are great places to start if you would like to increase your range of diverse reading in your book corner.

Best children's books - Diverse & Inclusive Books for KS1 (booksfortopics.com)

Diversity & Inclusion - 100 Children's Books that Celebrate Difference | LoveReading4Kids

An important aspect of addressing this challenge is to offer a curriculum that encompasses people and their diverse experiences.  When teaching is LGBTQIA+ inclusive, it allows every child to see themselves reflected in their education. This can involve showcasing diverse family structures, incorporating LGBTQIA+ inclusive literature, and participating in pride festivities. These actions not only offer support for LGBTQIA+ students, but they also help break down stereotypes that many children encounter. Stonewall has published several helpful resources, such as this guide, on creating an LGBTQIA+ inclusive primary curriculum.

Celebrate appropriate awareness events

Celebrating diversity and welcoming everyone into your classroom should be ongoing throughout the year within your classroom.  However, there are a number of different awareness events which encourage you to celebrate our differences.  Many resources and lesson plans can be provided to support these awareness events.  These may include different religious celebrations or focused awareness events including Pride, Black History Month, Autism Acceptance Month, Dyslexia Awareness Month and many more.