Being awarded the Flag means that not only do we encourage inclusion of LGBT+ but that we also develop strategies to combat LGBTphobic bullying. Vickie Hayes, our Learning Support Manager has been instrumental in coordinating the training, contributions and efforts from all our staff, helping to achieve the full award. We received the full award on January 28th 2020 and are now very excited to be receiving a visit from a representative of The Proud Trust, who will be presenting us with our certificate.
More about the Rainbow Flag AwardAt College, we are passionate about equality and diversity, ensuring that we are inclusive and supportive of all students. College’s commitment to supporting our LGBT+ community is shown in examples such as our dedicated LGBT+ student group and our Student Ambassadors who support our Open Events and LGBT+ visibility events across the year.
We were assessed against each of the 6 categories of the award and only when we have provided evidence for all criteria, could we qualify for the Full Rainbow Flag Award. Here are some of the positive comments from the evidence review, made by the assessors, that goes with each of the 6 standards:
Pastoral Support – “The evidence really shows the impact of simple and easy changes to everyday practice, such as asking pronouns.”
Pupil Voice – “This is a very, very good set of evidence. You’ve clearly worked hard and should be very proud of what has been achieved.”
Effective Policies – “This is one of the best Effective Policies section submissions that I have seen. Simple, clean, clear and positive. Great.”
Supportive Governors and Parents – “Governor training evaluations, good feedback. Advert for parent session, great. Good support in the comments on social media.”
Inclusive Curriculum – “I am very pleased to see the LGBT+ work that has happened become so outward facing through displays. It is great to see the different subject areas supporting the work by making some of the courses LGBT+ inclusive.”
Skilled Teacher – “Great that there is a plan to train so many staff, and that students and staff can identify the impact of the LGBT+ inclusion work that is being undertaken.”
Ronnie Fell, Chair of the Corporation said, “The Governing Body and I would like to congratulate the staff and students of the college on achieving this prestigious award.”
