Braunton Academy earns Rainbow Flag Award for commitment to LGBT+ inclusivity

Braunton Academy has said they are proud to achieve the Rainbow Flag Award for LGBT+ inclusivity.

Mrs. Halpin, a teacher involved in the initiative, expressed her elation, stating: "We are very proud of all the hard work that has gone into achieving this award. Staff, students, parents, and governors have all participated, and we are thrilled that our Academy has been recognised as a place where everyone feels welcome and celebrated."

The Rainbow Flag Award accreditation process entailed a rigorous period of self-assessment for the school. 

This period of self-reflection prompted concrete modifications, encompassing policy updates, incorporation of LGBT+ themes into the curriculum, and the distribution of diversity-promoting materials across the campus. 

Additionally, the initiation of an active Gay-Straight Alliance club has furnished a secure environment for students to engage in constructive dialogues concerning LGBT+ matters.

Acknowledging that the attainment of the Rainbow Flag Award is merely a step in their ongoing journey, the academy remains steadfast in its commitment to furthering LGBT+ inclusivity. Plans are underway to expand the integration of LGBT+ topics across various subjects, ensuring students receive a comprehensive education on diverse experiences.

A spokesperson for the academy said: “As an Academy, we are very much aware that achieving this award is just one step on our journey towards LGBT+ inclusivity. We have every intention of continuing to develop our positive approach to diversity as a school community. This will include considering LGBT+ topics when auditing our curriculum across all subjects, ensuring that there are ample relevant opportunities for our students to learn about the lives and experiences of a diverse range of people. We are in the process of extending this work to ensure that all minority groups feel included and valued within our curriculum.” 

Externally, Braunton Academy has been forging partnerships with organisations such as the Intercom Trust to strengthen support networks for LGBT+ students and staff. 

The school has been actively involved in local Pride events and has said they look forward to participating again in the future. 

Additionally, they received a physical Rainbow Flag as a gift for achieving the award, which they intend to proudly display outside the school building to symbolise their celebration of diversity within the broader community.

A school spokesperson said: “Through our work on the Rainbow Flag Award, we have been able to effect real change for our students and staff. The students in our Gay Straight Alliance group say that they have noticed an increased awareness of LGBT+ concerns in lessons and that the LGBT+ positive posters we have placed around the school have helped them to feel welcomed and safe. Staff also feel more confident discussing LGBT+ topics with students.”