Gandalf works magic on bullying Actor Sir Ian McKellen - known to many as Lord of the Rings' Gandalf - visited two Brent schools to talk about homophobic bullying. He didn't arrive on a white horse and there was no sign of his trademark wizard's beard, but Sir Ian McKellen still managed to cast a certain kind of magic over delighted Brent students who met him recently. The actor spoke to youngsters from Preston Manor and Kingsbury high schools as part of a nationwide tour by his charity, Stonewall, which campaigns for equality for gay, lesbian and bi-sexual people. He helped to set-up the organisation in 1989 to protect the rights of gay people by bringing about a change in British laws. Brent Council has worked in partnership with Stonewall's Education Champions Programme for the last two years, to tackle homophobic behaviour in schools. First, at Preston Manor High School Sir Ian addressed two assemblies, one of sixth formers and one of year 11 students. He gave a funny and inspirational talk about the only two topics he claimed to be an expert in: acting and tackling homophobic bullying. Students were invited to ask questions. Sir Ian met a group of students who had produced a role-play DVD comparing racist and homophobic bullying. Head teacher, Matthew Lantos, said:
“There was a real buzz around school after Sir Ian's visit. He is a captivating public speaker and showed a deep understanding of the tensions experienced by many young people as well as their dreams and aspirations.” At Kingsbury High School the actor ate lunch with a pupils group, before once again managing to entertain two assemblies of years 10 and 11 students with a frequently thought-provoking topic. Headteacher, Jeremy Waxman, also spoke about the school's commitment to equality for all and how discrimination, whether based on colour, religion, culture, appearance or sexuality, would not be tolerated at the school. Sir Ian McKellen said: “By talking frankly about my own life as a gay man and listening to the concerns of staff and students, parents and governors, I hope the visits arranged by Stonewall may make a difference in the classroom and the playground and also give confidence to gay students about their lives in the future.” For more information about Stonewall go to www.stonewall.org.uk . To find out about Brent Council's work around homophobic bullying call Anthony Felsenstein on 020 8937 3297. DECEMBER 2010
THE BRENT MAGAZINE
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