Every February Scotland celebrates LGBT History Month and Purple Friday as a way to celebrate LGBT identities. Each year has a different theme and there are differentiated learning activities and assemblies for primary and secondary schools.
Everybody has to start somewhere! These assemblies: introduce the terms lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender; highlight some LGBT role models; challenge homophobic language and behaviours; and give the opportunity to share where young people can get support.
The International Day Against Homophobia, Biphobia and Transphobia is another opportunity to highlight what homophobic, biphobic and transphobic behaviours may look like and that they are unacceptable in school. This day also has themes and each years’ resources reflect that.
The UNCRC is central to the Scottish education system and children and young people should know the rights they have. This activity focuses discussion of these rights around LGBT identities.
This day in October is a good opportunity for schools and teachers to positively highlight LGBT identities, share information about support for young people and discuss the issues around coming out for LGBT young people.
HIV/AIDS is still a very misunderstood topic especially with the changing treatment options available. This day in early December is a perfect opportunity to challenge misconceptions and stigmas while also sharing up to date information.
Bisexual identities are often ignored or erased from discussions about same-sex relationships. This day in September is a good way to celebrate bisexual identities and positively share information about same-sex attraction.
A campaign film written by and starring Scottish young people, this is an excellent resource for schools and teachers looking to explore what can be down to challenge homophobia and homophobic language in their schools.
Mid-November is Anti-Bullying Week and is a good opportunity for schools to reiterate their commitments to challenging homophobia, biphobia and transphobia.
Typically transgender people receive very few positive messages about their identities and this day affords schools and teachers the perfect opportunity to celebrate transgender people in Scotland and around the world.