Rainbow flags and rainbow lanyards seen across centres created a flurry of questions and interest when APC students had the opportunity to learn about LGBT+ issues across the curriculum during the LGBT+ Focus Week. All centres were involved and staff planned their own lessons and shared resources widely, once again showing how well staff work as a team. The activities and learning included:

  • Students explored the history of the LGBT community and were made aware that in many countries it is still illegal to be openly LGBT. Displays for classrooms were created by students.
  • News reports from The Commonwealth Games with statements from the diver Tom Daley and the Foreign Secretary, Boris Johnson, were read by some students to encourage critical thinking skills and written responses.
  • In Food lessons rainbow cakes and foods were made and shared and enjoyed.
  • Some students watched films to open critical thinking and debate – Pride and Leo being two of those used.

The week emphasised APC commitment to challenge HBT bullying and strategic planning to make APC a safe space for all regardless of gender or sexuality. The following images show some of the activities and displays which APC students created. APC is now well on the way to achieve The Rainbow Flag Award accreditation with Allsorts Brighton supporting us and delivering training open to all APC staff.

Further details are available via the ‘Pupils’ and ‘Parents’ tabs of our website, where support for young people in the process of ‘coming out’ can be accessed by both parents, carers and students. Staff in centres are always willing to speak with students, parents or carers and signpost them to local help. Please ask.