What is the LGBTQ+ Quality Mark?
The LGBTQ+ Quality Mark provides a comprehensive approach to developing an LGBTQ+ safe and supportive school.
The LGBTQ+ Quality Mark provides a comprehensive approach to developing an LGBTQ+ safe and supportive school that includes:
- Ensuring that staff are equipped to support LGBTQ+ students.
- Creating a supportive, LGBTQ+ inclusive school culture and environment.
- Encouraging students to share their opinions and ideas on how to create a safe and supportive school.
- Developing and implementing effective school policies and plans.
- Implementing a curriculum that supports diversity and respect.
- Working with parents, community organisations and other local LGBTQ+ youth projects or groups to promote LGBTQ+ inclusion.
Why is the LGBTQ+ Quality Mark Needed?
- In Ireland, 76% of LGBTQ+ students do not feel safe at school. However, research shows that effective school-based interventions can improve the lives and experiences of LGBTQ+ students.
- In 2022, 57 schools embarked on the 18-month journey to become an accredited LGBTQ+ safe and supportive school.
What does the LGBTQ+ Quality Mark involve?
- Recognise
Recognise and promote existing supports for your LGBTQ+ school community.
- Build and grow
Build on these existing supports and grow as an LGBTQ+ safe and supportive school through inclusive practice and policies.
- Achieve
Celebrate your commitment by attaining the Belong To LGBTQ+ Quality Mark.
The LGBTQ+ Quality Mark focuses on the four key areas of wellbeing promotion from an LGBTQ+ perspective:
- Creating an LGBTQ+ inclusive culture and environment.
- Resourcing an LGBTQ+ inclusive curriculum.
- Nurturing LGBTQ+ inclusive relationships and partnerships.
- Supporting LGBTQ+ inclusive policies and planning.