What is the whole-school approach to LGBTQ+ Inclusion?
The whole-school approach is based on a multi-component focus to inclusion which has been proven by researchers (Adi et al., 2007; Weare and Nind, 2011) to be most effective. The whole-school approach considers the wider-school, students’ families, and the community in order to create a completely inclusive society where academic, and social and emotional progression is integrated into daily interactions and practices.
Researchers (Smith et al., 2004; O’Higgins Norman et al., 2010; O’Moore, 2010) have proven that in order for anti-discrimination initiatives to be successful, all members of the school community must be on board. The whole-school approach is more than simply implementing a scheme of work, it’s a change in mindset and behaviour.
When designing an inclusive curriculum, schools need to focus on both the content that is being taught and the way in which is delivered. Implementing LGBTQ+ topics in a cross-curricular manner will help shape the school’s overall ethos and attitude towards inclusion. Students will be shown what it means to be empathetic and understanding by positive role models, rather than it being something they are simply told to do (Cowie and Myers, 2017).
How can we implement the whole-school approach?
It is important to remember that the whole-school approach cannot be achieved overnight, or even within a term. Whilst certain elements can be implemented straight away, other factors like school ethos, values, and mindset will evolve over time with the required perseverance and effort.
Throughout the curriculum there are many ways in which children can express themselves. This might be through art, music, poetry, dance, drama, or sport. Teachers should use their creative minds to formulate lessons that challege gender stereotypes and 'societal norms’ without it being an ‘LGBTQ+ lesson’. Our recommended children’s books are a great place to start.
In EYFS/KS1, introducing a role-play area that has a range of costumes and accessories can be a great way to start conversations about gender roles. Allow children to experiement with gender roles and challenge stereotypes that you hear in discussion. This area of the classroom might just be the place where a child feels free to be who they want to be. Providing role-play/dress-up spaces can be paramount for children’s social and emotional development.
