️Today we come together to begin a very important event in our school calendar: Stand Up Awareness Week. This is a week during which we focus on creating a culture of inclusion, kindness and respect for all young people, including those who are lesbian, gay, bisexual, trans, or are exploring their identity. ️
A wide range of activities and competitions will run throughout the week to celebrate the LGBTQ+ community. The week will end with a school favourite on Friday, Rainbow Day! ️
A section of our assembly this morning has been included below.
What makes a good Ally?
Being an ally means showing support to people who may be marginalised or feel excluded. It doesn’t require us to be perfect, but it does ask us to act. Here are some practical suggestions:
1. Listen and learn
Ask questions (respectfully) if you’re unsure, rather than making assumptions.
Use the correct name and pronouns someone prefers.
If you hear derogatory or exclusionary language (about being gay, bi, trans, etc) speak up: “That’s not okay.”
Take time to educate yourself this week: many resources are available this week that may be used in your lessons.
2. Use inclusive language
Avoid jokes or put-downs about sexuality or gender identity. These might seem harmless but they hurt.
If you make a mistake, apologise, correct yourself and move on. It shows respect.
3. Stand up (or stand beside)
If someone is being teased or excluded because they’re LGBTQ+ (or perceived to be), step in or get help.
Support peers: invite someone into your group, talk to someone sitting alone, include them in lunch/break time.
As a group or a class, you could take part in the activities taking place in lessons and around the school.
4. Build community
Celebrate diversity—every person is different, and that’s good.
Make school a space where difference is seen as strength.
Let’s ensure our school is one where people feel safe being themselves.
5. Reflect and improve
Ask yourself: “Have I done something this week to show inclusive behaviour?”
Consider how our classes, our school could improve: Are there places where people feel left out?
If you have ideas, share them with your teachers or the student council.
As we head into this week, I invite each one of you to choose to stand up. Not just for yourselves, but for others. If someone is feeling small, you can help make them feel seen. If someone is scared, you can help make them brave. If someone is alone, you can help make them part of the group.
Let’s make our school a place where every young person feels: You belong here.
