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Schools and Education

 

In Scottish schools, every child and young person should know that they are valued and that they will be supported to become successful learners, effective contributors, confident individuals and responsible citizens. Young people should have access to support and information and be supported to develop a positive appreciation of equality and social justice along with concern for and acceptance of others.

"Young people need to see that there is nothing wrong with it and that it is not right to make fun of people who might be gay. It’s horrible to have to go into school every day and worry about whether you are going to be called a poof in the corridor or have people staring at you, it should not be allowed." Male, 16 years

However, research and practice shows that school can be difficult for young people who identify as lesbian, gay, bisexual or transgender, and for those young people who are questioning their sexual orientation or gender identity. Homophobia and homophobic bullying in schools can have a range of consequences:

  • young people can be afraid to come to school, resulting in truancy or early leaving
  • young people may not participate in exams and therefore leave school with no qualifications
  • young people may delay coming out as LGBT and remain silent and isolated with little or no support
  • young people may experience distress and anxiety, negatively affecting their health and wellbeing

 

Dealing with homophobia, homophobic bullying and the issues which face LGBT young people can be new territory for schools. LGBT Youth Scotland aims to work with schools, teachers and young people to make sure that every LGBT young person can reach their full potential and that all young people can develop awareness and respect for difference.

In this section of the LGBT Youth Scotland website you can find:

  • Frequently Asked Questions about LGBT young people, homophobia and homophobic bullying
  • Dealing with Homophobia and Homophobic Bullying: Toolkit and Lesson Plans for Teachers
  • Information about LGBT Youth Scotland’s work in schools
  • Information about Challenging Homophobia Together, LGBT Youth Scotland’s campaign for schools
  • Useful resources and contacts

 

Content on these webpages includes extracts from the full version of Dealing with Homophobia and Homophobic Bullying: Toolkit for Teachers.

LGBT Youth Scotland