A Dundee primary school will become the first in Scotland to be awarded an LGBT badge of honour for its work in promoting equality.
Downfield Primary School will be granted a Silver Charter Award by LGBT Youth Scotland – the second highest award that can be given to an organisation in recognition of their efforts to create a diverse environment.
An “equality and diversity team” of nine pupils took a lead role in reviewing and developing the school’s policies on equality, a process that involved the ideas and opinions of young people and played a key part in the school receiving the award.
The news was welcomed by Councillor Gregor Murray, convener of Dundee’s Children and Families Service and council spokesperson for equal opportunities.
Councillor Murray said: “To be the first in the entire country is an accolade that really demonstrates the hard work and commitment from all of the staff, and parents, and of course, the pupils.
“Downfield is a clear trailblazer in this area, although I am aware of a number of secondaries and primaries who are close on their heels.
“While other schools – such as Craigie High School – have reached bronze level, my understanding is that LGBT Youth Scotland were so impressed with the fabulous work happening at Downfield, that they decided that the school should skip bronze and head straight for silver.
“It is a fantastic achievement and will improve the experience of all pupils, not just those who identify as LGBTI.”
Parents with children at Downfield Primary have reportedly written to the headteacher to say that the work leading up to the award has had a “positive” impact on the pupils.
The LGBT Charter has been awarded to organisations including Barnardo’s Scotland and Scottish Women’s Aid, as well as 18 high schools across the country.
It represents a serious and ongoing commitment to improving an organisation’s policies and values around LGBTI inclusion.
LGBT Youth Scotland provide comprehensive training for staff members and guide each organisation’s LGBT Charter team through the collation of a folder of evidence that tells the story of their journey and shows plans for the future.
The award will be given at a presentation ceremony at Downfield Primary School at 1.30pm on June 18.
