creating a safe and positive working environment.
Students are provided with a safe space to discuss LGBT issues, ask questions and challenge negative attitudes and assumptions of LGBT people.
The Quality Standards are based on legislation to help schools and colleges to achieve government requirements and create a happier and more supported atmosphere for all students.
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The experience escalates students learning and enables them to decide on personal and collective positive actions to create a happier school environment for all students.
H
The Paul Patrick Award is a set of Quality Standards to measure Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual AND Trans students’ access, involvement AND participation in an educational setting.
ENDING HO
TION UCA ED
S ON
These workshops have been developed from over 30 years of experience of face to face work with young people. The workshops are facilitated by trained peer facilitators and sessions take students on a learning journey.
LGBT Youth North West is in the final stages of developing these Quality Standards. Created from over 30 years X ofDservice, 40 combined years ING E PECTover AT EE of work with Iyoung LGBT people and youth work experience and informed by professionals working in the education field, the Quality Standards will be offered through LGBT Youth North West as an addition to the existing Exceeding Expectations support package.
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For further details or to express an interest, please contact Myrtle by e-mail: lgbtyouthnorthwest@ yahoo.co.uk or Telephone: 07531 061 777.
IA THRO HOB UG OP M
As part of the Exceeding Expectations Support Package, Lesbian AND Gay Youth Manchester and LGBT Youth North West offer workshops for Students’ to attend.
The Quality Standards are named in honour of Paul Patrick, co-founder of School’s Out; co-creator of LGBT History Month and a pioneer for LGBT people’s rights and visibility especially in the education system. Visit the website: www.schools-out.org.uk
The Paul Patrick Award is available for schools, colleges and youth settings throughout the North West of England. For further details or to express an interest, please contact Myrtle by e-mail: lgbtyouthnorthwest@yahoo. co.uk or Tel: 07531 061 777.
EXCEEDING
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THE PAUL PATRICK QUALITY EXCEEDING STANDARD AWARD EXPECTATIONS STUDENT WORKSHOPS
EXCEEDING
EXPECTATIONS
• ENDING HOMOPHOBIA THROUGH EDUCATION •
OUTLOUD FOR LGBT HISTORY MONTH LGBT History Month has been celebrated in the UK in February since 2005. Its celebration provides schools and other organisations opportunities to focus on, retrieve and establish the stories of the experiences, contributions and achievements of lesbian, gay, bisexual and trans people.
To highlight this, OUTLOUD Exceeding Expectations’ Theatre in Education performance will be presented in more Manchester schools at various locations between 23rd February – 6th March. At the last tour of OUTLOUD undertaken throughout November 2008, Maria Oakley from Healthy Schools and director Adam Zane developed the post-show workshop to great success.
EXPECTATIONS
Evaluations from other educational organisations have proved the positive impact of the workshops in developing both attainment and achievement of students and helping classroom management by
Pupils often want to find out more about the homophobic murder of Matthew Shepard and have a great deal of questions about the issue of hate crime.
On average, 90-95% of the young people who have participated in the workshops agree that their school should support the Zero Tolerance policy. The play provokes a lot of discussion by the young people and subjects raised often include religious attitudes towards homosexuality, coming out in a school environment and where young people can go for help or support.
Exceeding Expectations has also produced an information sheet about Matthew Shepard that points the young people to relevant websites and resources.
PFA and Kick It Out, the body that campaigns for equality and inclusion in football.
Peter Tatchell, the gay rights campaigner, approached the governing body with the idea of “an MTV-style video where leading players were willing to speak out against anti-gay prejudice, with the idea of making it seem uncool.”
“We would like to have the film ready to be shown before the end of the season, preferably April. The Football Association has always sought to take a stand against homophobia.”
TM
Above: Cast of Outloud
Ending Homophobia,
Empowering People
Ending Homophobia, “We haven’t actually approached anyEmpowering People www.lgf.org.uk individual players yet,” a spokesman www.lgf.org.uk Registered Charity No.1070904 from the FA said,” but the video is definitely going to happen.
Last year Manchester United’s Rio Ferdinand made a statement attacking homophobia, saying it had no place in sport. Mr Tatchell hopes that the video will be shown in schools across the country.
Exceeding Expectations encourages teachers to actively participate in the workshop with the young people and also to contribute to the development of the workshop as the tour continues this year. Exceeding Expectations is currently seeking interest to develop further sessions in schools. If you would like to know more please get in touch. Tel: 07866 445985. E-mail: exceedingexpectations@lgf.org.uk
Once the groups have discussed the obvious first question (who in the cast is actually gay?) they are asked what they themselves can do to end homophobia in their school.
TOP PREMIER LEAGUE PLAYERS TARGETED IN BATTLE AGAINST HOMOPHOBIA
Players from the four English clubs involved in Champions League matches will be among those invited to appear by the FA, who are working in partnership with the
After the pupils have seen the play they participate in a group discussion where some of the issues raised are discussed in greater detail.
The young people are then taken into smaller groups where they are given a chance to ask the actors any questions.
Leading Premier Football League players are to be asked to help the Football Association battle homophobia in football by appearing in a video to be shown on big screens at major stadiums.
HOPE
MANCHESTER SAFEGUARDING CHILDREN BOARD
Theatre Company www.operationfundraiser.com
Children’s services
Manchester Multi-Agency anti-bullying policy and practice network
CONTACT INFORMATION FOR THE EXCEEDING EXPECTATIONS INITIATIVE: Tel: 07866 445985 • email: exceedingexpectations@lgf.org.uk • web: www.exceedingexpectations.org.uk
7
The issue of whether they would support a Zero Tolerance policy on both homophobia and racism is also discussed.
CHANGES IN ATTITUDES ACROSS MANCHESTER SCHOOLS The impact of Exceeding Expectations and particularly schools that have participated with the initiative does seem to be having a positive impact in changes to attitudes around homophobia. The latest findings to current attitudes in Manchester schools compare phase 1 (February 2008) phase 2 (May 2008) and phase 3 (November 2008).
In phases 1 and 2, only 2 in 10 pupils understood the meaning of the term, ‘homophobia’. By phase 3, in those same schools, 8 in 10 pupils understand the term. In phases 1 and 2, only 3 in 10 pupils felt it would be safe to come out at school. Schools joining us for the first time in phase 3 also reported similar numbers. However, in schools returning for phase 3, the number of pupils who believe it to be safe to come out, jumps to 7 in 10.
These figures are mirrored almost exactly when pupils are asked whether their school is safe for LGB pupils. A similar picture is painted when pupils were asked whether a member of staff would be able to come out at school. Schools returning to phase 3 of EE reported a doubling in the number of pupils who felt that staff would be able to come out (3 in 10 to nearly 6 in 10). Clearly, EE is helping create a healthier, safer whole school environment.
• ENDING HOMOPHOBIA
6
THROUGH EDUCATION
LYING WEEK ANthTI-BUL 17 -21st November is THe anTi-BULLyinG weeK perFecT TiMe To address and HoMopHoBic BULLyinG, in wHicH THe increasinG ways vicTiMs oF sTUdenTs can BecoMe BULLyinG.
Expectations’, In this issue of ‘Exceeding and cover three we look at cyber-bullying, on homophobic ground breaking surveys bullying in schools. We highlight:
l A local survey of Manchester feedback Schools, which has received their from 1,800 pupils, about understanding of homophobia. l A survey by the Independent Group, Academic Research Studies treated in on how LGBT students are
Manchester teen’s suicide linked to homophobic bullying.
openly gay Lee simpson, 18, was an in Manchester. student from Blackley to come After taking the brave decision of to a string out, Lee was subjected phone calls anonymous and abusive Lee’s about his sexual orientation. homophobic father believes that the to the point calls became unbearable; go on. where Lee could no longer year, Lee Tragically, in March of this home. committed suicide at his Manchester Councillor Paul Fairweather, for Gay City Council’s Lead member suicide Mens Issues said: “The tragic damage of Lee Simpson shows the is still that homophobic bullying in the city. doing to young people is committed Manchester City Council wherever to challenging homophobia duty to work it appears. We all have a no more together to ensure that to such young people are subjected harassment and abuse.”
schools. of 1,145 l The Stonewall survey on the young people, focusing for gay consequences of bullying pupils. the negative All three surveys highlight bullying has impact that homophobic emphasise on our young people, and ic the need to promote anti-homophob schools, and bullying initiatives in our education. end homophobia through
•
YOUNG PEOPLE’S UNDERSTANDING OF HOMOPHOBIA IN MANCHESTER SCHOOLS ’ has ‘exceeding expectations 1,800 already received over in responses from pupils 8 Manchester schools (year across through to sixth form if you 9 Manchester schools). of would like a detailed copy let the findings below please us know. the l 1 in 4 did not understand the word ‘homophobia’ before play went into the schools. believe a l 2 in 5 (43%) do not come out pupil would be able to at school. their l 1 in 2 (47%) feel that and school is NOT a welcoming safe place for LGB pupils. 35% and l Around 1 in 3 (37%, there 31% respectively) feel that in are no images of LGB people books, school, either in school posters, or any other sources.
feel l Only 1 in 5 (20%) pupils that the lives & achievements in of LGB people are included lessons. pupils l Less than 1 in 3 (29%) for help would know where to go an LGB for either themselves or to tears by Julie says: “I’ve been moved friend. Expectations accounts of how Exceeding in Greater has gone down in schools l 2 in 5 (40%) have witnessed and Manchester. verbal homophobic bullying, reported only 1 in 8 of those (13%) this issue, to It takes courage to address it. to acknowledge take on the homophobia, have exists and that this kind of bullying l More than 1 in 5 (22%) as unchallenged remains relatively witnessed physical homophobic (10%) opposed to all other forms. bullying, and only 1 in 10 reported it. in a few years If we sow the seeds now said unacceptable as homophobia could be as l Finally, only 1 in 8 (13%) in our streets. (verbal racism in our schools and that reporting the bullying opportunity anything Please be part of this amazing the and physical) resulted in change it. to change attitudes and actually being done about
S NOW OUTLOUD AND IN SCHOOL staff training, a support package featuring workshops. a DVD presentation, and
available as part A free support pack is also package, which of the OUTLOUD schools DVD presentation includes: staff training, a LGBT young and a workshop led by of performances people. The next round 2009. will be 23 February - 6 March
Theatre in ‘Exceeding Expectation’s’ will be presented Education performance, next month, in more Manchester schools at various with a dozen performances November, with schools between 17-28th
for To book the play and workshopsor email: 445985 your school, Tel: 07866 g.uk exceedingexpectations@lgf.or left), Julie Hesmondhalgh, (pictured DVD which is presents OUTLOUD the available to schools now.
world.”
work of 2008, has recognised the West Public Health Awards to announce that it has won, a STOP PRESS! The North and the project is delighted ip category. ‘Exceeding Expectations’ in the Public Health Partnersh “Highly Commended” citation
For a large print format of this newsletter, please call 0161 235 8035 or email: info@lgf.org.uk
www.operationfundraiser.com
EXCEEDING EXPECTATIONS: ISSUE 7
EXCEEDING EXPECTATIONS: ISSUE 7
HOMOPHOBIA RIFE IN SCHOOLS SAYS TEACHERS UNION
Ed Balls, Secretary of State for Children, Schools, and Families told the 2008 Labour Conference: “we have acted” on bullying of every kind in school, “and we have published our first ever guidance to help schools tackle homophobic bullying.”
Amelia Lee from LGBT Youth North West said, “It is an issue which is so common and so pervasive in our schools - homophobia is epidemic. Thankfully, most local authorities are beginning to see that unless we tackle it, then the school will not
In the article, journalist and teacher Phil Beadle refers to homophobia in British schools as: “a national crisis that almost no one knows about”, declaring British schools “the final bastions of homophobia”.
For more information about the work contact Jeff Evans of Oldham NUT or e-mail: LGBTyouthnorthwest@ yahoo.co.uk
The NUT - who endorse the Exceeding Expectations project - are planning to roll the survey out across all North West Schools.
There are also specific posts for race, gender and disability equality. Meanwhile, two councillors, Mary Murphy and Paul Fairweather, act as lead members on this work. The Council’s work in this field has been widely recognised: in 2008 the Pink Paper’s readers voted it the best local Council.
He highlights the risks involved for lesbian, gay and bisexual teachers coming out to their students, but also stresses that visibility is the way forward. Beadle feels that it is important that LGB teachers do not transmit the ‘code of secrecy’ down to their students, and stresses that they could be strong role models for pupils struggling with their sexual orientation.
email: exceedingexpectations@lgf.org.uk • Website: www.exceedingexpectations.org.uk
Terry Waller/Jon Atkin Lead Officers for Gay Men’s Issues Telephone: 0161 234 3259/1828
NEW POSTER AVAILABLE FOR ALL SCHOOLS TO CELEBRATE LGBT HISTORY Exceeding Expectations have developed a special poster (PICTURED RIGHT) featuring SEVEN inspirational gay men and SEVEN inspirational gay women from the worlds of sport, politics, literature, culture & entertainment. Each school in Manchester will be receiving copies of this poster with this newsletter. If you would like more copies for your school notice boards or for special events please e-mail: exceedingexpectations@lgf.org.uk
LGBT History Month in Schools Toolkit If you are planning an event, or you would like to know how to, then this is the guide for you. The activities on offer to schools are as diverse and creative as its people and make a real difference.
LGBT History Month is an opportunity for all of us to learn more about the histories of lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender people. There are many examples of how LGBT people have made important contributions to society and their legacy is one that not only the LGBT community but the whole world can celebrate.
All available at: www.lgbthistorymonth.org.uk/ resources/legal.htm
Sir Ian McKellen
Will Young
Angela Eagle
At home equally in Hollywood blockbusters or intimate theatre productions, Ian McKellen is one of the greatest living British actors. As an ambassador for the LGBT community his ‘coming out’ in response to Section 28 in the late eighties helped him co-found the gay rights campaigning group Stonewall.
English singer songwriter and actor who rose to fame after winning the first ever Pop Idol contest. In March 2002, Young revealed that he is gay, to pre-empt a tabloid newspaper that was preparing to run a story outing him. He also stated that he had never hidden, and was comfortable with, his sexuality.
Member of Parliament for Wallasey, Angela Eagle is currently the Secretary to the Treasury. She became British Parliament’s first openly lesbian member by coming out in September 1997. She also became the first female MP to tie the knot in a civil partnership with her partner of 18 years in 2008.
1939 -
LGBT History Month Resources for Schools All teachers know that learning can only take place when the atmosphere is right. In addition to lesson suggestions tailored for LGBT History Month, support and resources for schools include materials prepared by experienced teachers: l helping end the official invisibility of LGBT people in the school community and curriculum. l Developing policies that are respectful of their rights. l Tackling bullying, name-calling and abusive language. l Policy advice on bullying and homophobia.
The document aims to enable people to find examples of what can be done and how it can be done. It also highlights the elements of legislation supporting the introduction of the LGBT elements in the curriculum. You can download the toolkit from: www.lgbthistorymonth.org.uk/schools/main.htm
1961 -
1979 -
Quentin Crisp
Russell T. Davies OBE
Ellen DeGeneres
Dusty Springfield OBE
A key (but reluctant) figure in the fight for lesbian and gay visibility, Crisp lived his life in open contrast to the social norm. His humorous self-proclaimed nickname of “one of the stately homos of England” and high profile raised the collective awareness of gay people among heterosexuals.
Multi award winning scriptwriter and television producer, best known for Queer as Folk and for spearheading the successful revival of Doctor Who, and creating Torchwood and Adventures. ”Being gay does make you different, but that’s not a bad thing. It certainly helped me become a writer.”
American stand-up comedienne and host of the award winning talk show The Ellen DeGeneres Show and the Academy Awards (Oscars). She also starred in two television sitcoms, Ellen and The Ellen Show. In 1997, she came out publicly as lesbian in an appearance on The Oprah Winfrey Show.
Acknowledged as probably the best female pop singer Britain has ever produced at a time when women in entertainment were largely underrated. Springfield challenged apartheid in 1960’s South Africa and was deported for playing to multiracial audiences. After much speculation she acknowledged she was attracted to people of the same sex in 1970.
Alan Turing
Beth Ditto
Turing was a British mathematician, considered by many to be the father of modern computer science. During the Second World War he helped to crack the Enigma machine code (which was used to send secret military messages). Many historians believe that this was central in bringing the war in Europe to an end.
Fronts rock band,The Gossip, whose hit single Standing in the Way of Control – is about the American Government’s attempt to block the right to gay marriage. “Just because you’re different it doesn’t mean you can’t be what you want to be. Whatever you are, no matter how different you are, you can achieve things if you believe in yourself.”
Justin Fashanu 1961 - 1998
The only professional footballer to date to publicly declare his homosexuality. Justin Fashanu endured racist and homophobic abuse throughout his football career. One of the tragedies of Justin Fashanu’s story is that homophobia in the football industry seems to be as bad now as it was then.
MartinaINGNavratilova EXPECT
1981 -
1912 - 1954
1939 - 1999
1958 -
1963 -
1908-1999
1956 -
Oscar Wilde
Carol Ann Duffy OBE
Irish playwright, poet and author of numerous short stories and one novel. He became one of the most successful playwrights of the late Victorian era and one of the greatest celebrities of his day. Wilde suffered a dramatic downfall as the result of a widely covered series of trials when homosexuality was illegal.
British poet, playwright and freelance writer who is the most popular living poet in Britain. Duffy was almost appointed the British Poet Laureate in 1999, however it was reported that Downing Street was worried about having a homosexual poet laureate. Duffy claimed that she would not have accepted anyway.
1854 – 1900
For more information, click on the websites: www.exceedingexpectations.org.uk and www.lgbthistorymonth.org.uk now!
ED
AT
I E Former World No. 1 women’s tennis player widely regarded as the greatest singles, doubles and mixed doubles player who’s ever lived. Originally from Czechoslovakia, she defected to the United States in 1975 and became a U.S. citizen in 1981. That year Navratilova came out publicly about her sexual orientation.
1955 -
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Finally, Beadle stresses that if we are to overcome homophobia, and prevent young LGB children being victimised: ”then teachers should be teaching that being homosexual is a perfectly reasonable thing to be.”
Nicky Griffiths Lead Officer for Lesbians’ Issues Telephone: 0161 234 1881
ENDING
Another recommendation that Beadle makes is that more images, books and posters featuring lesbian, gay, and bisexual people should be used in schools. (See opposite about the new poster produced for LGBT History Month).
There is a core group of people who meet monthly and act as the first point of reference for all LGBT consultations.
The group has run seminars on LGBT issues for other employers, is an active partner on initiatives like organising the Council’s LGBT Jobs Fair and keeps LGBT staff up-to-date with changes.
NS
The article partly attributes the prevalence of homophobia to Section 28 (1988 – 2004), the directive to all local authorities that they should not “promote the teaching in any maintained school of the acceptability of homosexuality as a pretended family relationship.”
Beadle feels that 5 years after the repeal of Section 28, British education still has a long way to go in terms of teachers feeling confident about discussing LGB matters, and challenging homophobia.
Six years ago it was decided that an LGBT employee group should be established. It has a dual role of influencing policy and service delivery and acting as a support and representative body for staff.
The group has played an instrumental role in a number of developments over the years including persuading the council to change its policy on adoptive leave so that gay and lesbian staff were entitled to time off when adopting – a loophole in council policy until a few years ago.
S ON
Beadle goes on to say that while school policies in regards to racism and sexism have improved, not enough is being done to protect the rights of young gay people, even going as far as saying: “homophobia in British schools is the last acceptable prejudice.”
LGBT Employee Group
The Council created two specific lead officer posts for lesbian and gay issues in 1984 as part of Manchester’s newly-formed equal opportunities unit. The lead officers for gay and lesbian issues sit in the Council’s Organisations Improvement and Inclusion Team.
Are British schools “the final bastions of homophobia”? In January 2009 The Guardian newspaper published a damning report on the prevalence and negative effects of homophobia in UK schools, highlightING the necessity for schools to challenge homophobia and support their LGB pupils.
Manchester has been actively supporting LGB people both in the workplace and the wider community. It has been rightly recognised as one of the best employers in this field.
There is also a wider membership of about 180 staff who meet quarterly to discuss LGBT issues.
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In 2007, Stonewall’s School Report found that nearly two thirds of LGB pupils experienced “direct bullying” in schools nationwide.
“Until teachers feel that they have the confidence and skills needed to challenge homophobia, many young people will continue to be subjected to harassment and bullying.”
be a healthy and happy learning environment.” LGBT Youth North West’s SSH! report last year revealed that as a result of homophobia, schools could expect poor attendance, higher bullying levels and lower attainment.
The Council is also working towards more proactive approaches to promoting equality. As part of Manchester City Council’s corporate equality plan, which also deals with the race, gender and disability agendas, each service is expected to include LGBT equality actions in its Business Plan.
TION UCA ED
Research highlights that homophobic bullying is connected to lesbian, gay and bisexual pupils underachieving academically: 72% of LGB adults reported regular absenteeism at school to escape harassment, and LGB pupils are more likely to leave school at 16.
Under the Government’s ‘Every Child Matters’ guidelines, all children, regardless of sexual orientation or race, should be safe, healthy and able to enjoy and achieve in all aspects of their life.
Manchester City Councillor Paul Fairweather, lead member on gay men’s issues, commented: “This piece of research yet again shows the need to ensure all teachers are effectively trained to deal with incidents of homophobic abuse and bullying.
Research shows that homophobia is still alive in the workplace. A third of lesbian and gay workers say they are unable to be open about their sexual orientation. But this is not the case at Manchester City Council.
H
Tony Harrison, from the Oldham branch of the NUT told the Manchester Evening News: “Homophobia is a destructive force and damages young people because of their sexuality or perceived sexuality.”
Exceeding Expectations has surveyed nearly 3,000 secondary school pupils, and found that 47% felt that their school was not a welcoming or safe place for LGB pupils.
However, Harrison suggests that the teachers surveyed in Oldham are in favour of more training, as three quarters said that they would “welcome training both school wide and individually on addressing homophobia.”
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The research, which focused on five secondary schools in the Oldham area, also found that over half of the teachers surveyed had actually been the target of the homophobic abuse.
The NUT research in Oldham echoes Exceeding Expectations findings in Manchester.
IA THRO HOB UG OP M
New research commissioned by the National Union of Teachers has found that 85% of teachers hear homophobic abuse in schools every week.
Supporting lesbian and gay staff in Manchester
Jackie Kay MBE
1961 -
Poet and novelist. “It just so happens that I am black, Scottish and a lesbian – and I’m quite proud of that. It’s annoying because people only get defined by difference. It would be great if they had a ‘white writers’ section in a book shop as it would challenge peoples’ assumptions.”
EXCEEDING
EXPECTATIONS
email: exceedingexpectations@lgf.org.uk • Website: www.exceedingexpectations.org.uk
www.operationfundraiser.com
EXCEEDING EXPECTATIONS: ISSUE 7
EXCEEDING EXPECTATIONS: ISSUE 7
HOMOPHOBIA RIFE IN SCHOOLS SAYS TEACHERS UNION
Ed Balls, Secretary of State for Children, Schools, and Families told the 2008 Labour Conference: “we have acted” on bullying of every kind in school, “and we have published our first ever guidance to help schools tackle homophobic bullying.”
Amelia Lee from LGBT Youth North West said, “It is an issue which is so common and so pervasive in our schools - homophobia is epidemic. Thankfully, most local authorities are beginning to see that unless we tackle it, then the school will not
In the article, journalist and teacher Phil Beadle refers to homophobia in British schools as: “a national crisis that almost no one knows about”, declaring British schools “the final bastions of homophobia”.
For more information about the work contact Jeff Evans of Oldham NUT or e-mail: LGBTyouthnorthwest@ yahoo.co.uk
The NUT - who endorse the Exceeding Expectations project - are planning to roll the survey out across all North West Schools.
There are also specific posts for race, gender and disability equality. Meanwhile, two councillors, Mary Murphy and Paul Fairweather, act as lead members on this work. The Council’s work in this field has been widely recognised: in 2008 the Pink Paper’s readers voted it the best local Council.
He highlights the risks involved for lesbian, gay and bisexual teachers coming out to their students, but also stresses that visibility is the way forward. Beadle feels that it is important that LGB teachers do not transmit the ‘code of secrecy’ down to their students, and stresses that they could be strong role models for pupils struggling with their sexual orientation.
email: exceedingexpectations@lgf.org.uk • Website: www.exceedingexpectations.org.uk
Terry Waller/Jon Atkin Lead Officers for Gay Men’s Issues Telephone: 0161 234 3259/1828
NEW POSTER AVAILABLE FOR ALL SCHOOLS TO CELEBRATE LGBT HISTORY Exceeding Expectations have developed a special poster (PICTURED RIGHT) featuring SEVEN inspirational gay men and SEVEN inspirational gay women from the worlds of sport, politics, literature, culture & entertainment. Each school in Manchester will be receiving copies of this poster with this newsletter. If you would like more copies for your school notice boards or for special events please e-mail: exceedingexpectations@lgf.org.uk
LGBT History Month in Schools Toolkit If you are planning an event, or you would like to know how to, then this is the guide for you. The activities on offer to schools are as diverse and creative as its people and make a real difference.
LGBT History Month is an opportunity for all of us to learn more about the histories of lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender people. There are many examples of how LGBT people have made important contributions to society and their legacy is one that not only the LGBT community but the whole world can celebrate.
All available at: www.lgbthistorymonth.org.uk/ resources/legal.htm
Sir Ian McKellen
Will Young
Angela Eagle
At home equally in Hollywood blockbusters or intimate theatre productions, Ian McKellen is one of the greatest living British actors. As an ambassador for the LGBT community his ‘coming out’ in response to Section 28 in the late eighties helped him co-found the gay rights campaigning group Stonewall.
English singer songwriter and actor who rose to fame after winning the first ever Pop Idol contest. In March 2002, Young revealed that he is gay, to pre-empt a tabloid newspaper that was preparing to run a story outing him. He also stated that he had never hidden, and was comfortable with, his sexuality.
Member of Parliament for Wallasey, Angela Eagle is currently the Secretary to the Treasury. She became British Parliament’s first openly lesbian member by coming out in September 1997. She also became the first female MP to tie the knot in a civil partnership with her partner of 18 years in 2008.
1939 -
LGBT History Month Resources for Schools All teachers know that learning can only take place when the atmosphere is right. In addition to lesson suggestions tailored for LGBT History Month, support and resources for schools include materials prepared by experienced teachers: l helping end the official invisibility of LGBT people in the school community and curriculum. l Developing policies that are respectful of their rights. l Tackling bullying, name-calling and abusive language. l Policy advice on bullying and homophobia.
The document aims to enable people to find examples of what can be done and how it can be done. It also highlights the elements of legislation supporting the introduction of the LGBT elements in the curriculum. You can download the toolkit from: www.lgbthistorymonth.org.uk/schools/main.htm
1961 -
1979 -
Quentin Crisp
Russell T. Davies OBE
Ellen DeGeneres
Dusty Springfield OBE
A key (but reluctant) figure in the fight for lesbian and gay visibility, Crisp lived his life in open contrast to the social norm. His humorous self-proclaimed nickname of “one of the stately homos of England” and high profile raised the collective awareness of gay people among heterosexuals.
Multi award winning scriptwriter and television producer, best known for Queer as Folk and for spearheading the successful revival of Doctor Who, and creating Torchwood and Adventures. ”Being gay does make you different, but that’s not a bad thing. It certainly helped me become a writer.”
American stand-up comedienne and host of the award winning talk show The Ellen DeGeneres Show and the Academy Awards (Oscars). She also starred in two television sitcoms, Ellen and The Ellen Show. In 1997, she came out publicly as lesbian in an appearance on The Oprah Winfrey Show.
Acknowledged as probably the best female pop singer Britain has ever produced at a time when women in entertainment were largely underrated. Springfield challenged apartheid in 1960’s South Africa and was deported for playing to multiracial audiences. After much speculation she acknowledged she was attracted to people of the same sex in 1970.
Alan Turing
Beth Ditto
Turing was a British mathematician, considered by many to be the father of modern computer science. During the Second World War he helped to crack the Enigma machine code (which was used to send secret military messages). Many historians believe that this was central in bringing the war in Europe to an end.
Fronts rock band,The Gossip, whose hit single Standing in the Way of Control – is about the American Government’s attempt to block the right to gay marriage. “Just because you’re different it doesn’t mean you can’t be what you want to be. Whatever you are, no matter how different you are, you can achieve things if you believe in yourself.”
Justin Fashanu 1961 - 1998
The only professional footballer to date to publicly declare his homosexuality. Justin Fashanu endured racist and homophobic abuse throughout his football career. One of the tragedies of Justin Fashanu’s story is that homophobia in the football industry seems to be as bad now as it was then.
MartinaINGNavratilova EXPECT
1981 -
1912 - 1954
1939 - 1999
1958 -
1963 -
1908-1999
1956 -
Oscar Wilde
Carol Ann Duffy OBE
Irish playwright, poet and author of numerous short stories and one novel. He became one of the most successful playwrights of the late Victorian era and one of the greatest celebrities of his day. Wilde suffered a dramatic downfall as the result of a widely covered series of trials when homosexuality was illegal.
British poet, playwright and freelance writer who is the most popular living poet in Britain. Duffy was almost appointed the British Poet Laureate in 1999, however it was reported that Downing Street was worried about having a homosexual poet laureate. Duffy claimed that she would not have accepted anyway.
1854 – 1900
For more information, click on the websites: www.exceedingexpectations.org.uk and www.lgbthistorymonth.org.uk now!
ED
AT
I E Former World No. 1 women’s tennis player widely regarded as the greatest singles, doubles and mixed doubles player who’s ever lived. Originally from Czechoslovakia, she defected to the United States in 1975 and became a U.S. citizen in 1981. That year Navratilova came out publicly about her sexual orientation.
1955 -
G EXPECTA DIN TIO EE
HO
Finally, Beadle stresses that if we are to overcome homophobia, and prevent young LGB children being victimised: ”then teachers should be teaching that being homosexual is a perfectly reasonable thing to be.”
Nicky Griffiths Lead Officer for Lesbians’ Issues Telephone: 0161 234 1881
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Another recommendation that Beadle makes is that more images, books and posters featuring lesbian, gay, and bisexual people should be used in schools. (See opposite about the new poster produced for LGBT History Month).
There is a core group of people who meet monthly and act as the first point of reference for all LGBT consultations.
The group has run seminars on LGBT issues for other employers, is an active partner on initiatives like organising the Council’s LGBT Jobs Fair and keeps LGBT staff up-to-date with changes.
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The article partly attributes the prevalence of homophobia to Section 28 (1988 – 2004), the directive to all local authorities that they should not “promote the teaching in any maintained school of the acceptability of homosexuality as a pretended family relationship.”
Beadle feels that 5 years after the repeal of Section 28, British education still has a long way to go in terms of teachers feeling confident about discussing LGB matters, and challenging homophobia.
Six years ago it was decided that an LGBT employee group should be established. It has a dual role of influencing policy and service delivery and acting as a support and representative body for staff.
The group has played an instrumental role in a number of developments over the years including persuading the council to change its policy on adoptive leave so that gay and lesbian staff were entitled to time off when adopting – a loophole in council policy until a few years ago.
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Beadle goes on to say that while school policies in regards to racism and sexism have improved, not enough is being done to protect the rights of young gay people, even going as far as saying: “homophobia in British schools is the last acceptable prejudice.”
LGBT Employee Group
The Council created two specific lead officer posts for lesbian and gay issues in 1984 as part of Manchester’s newly-formed equal opportunities unit. The lead officers for gay and lesbian issues sit in the Council’s Organisations Improvement and Inclusion Team.
Are British schools “the final bastions of homophobia”? In January 2009 The Guardian newspaper published a damning report on the prevalence and negative effects of homophobia in UK schools, highlightING the necessity for schools to challenge homophobia and support their LGB pupils.
Manchester has been actively supporting LGB people both in the workplace and the wider community. It has been rightly recognised as one of the best employers in this field.
There is also a wider membership of about 180 staff who meet quarterly to discuss LGBT issues.
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In 2007, Stonewall’s School Report found that nearly two thirds of LGB pupils experienced “direct bullying” in schools nationwide.
“Until teachers feel that they have the confidence and skills needed to challenge homophobia, many young people will continue to be subjected to harassment and bullying.”
be a healthy and happy learning environment.” LGBT Youth North West’s SSH! report last year revealed that as a result of homophobia, schools could expect poor attendance, higher bullying levels and lower attainment.
The Council is also working towards more proactive approaches to promoting equality. As part of Manchester City Council’s corporate equality plan, which also deals with the race, gender and disability agendas, each service is expected to include LGBT equality actions in its Business Plan.
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Research highlights that homophobic bullying is connected to lesbian, gay and bisexual pupils underachieving academically: 72% of LGB adults reported regular absenteeism at school to escape harassment, and LGB pupils are more likely to leave school at 16.
Under the Government’s ‘Every Child Matters’ guidelines, all children, regardless of sexual orientation or race, should be safe, healthy and able to enjoy and achieve in all aspects of their life.
Manchester City Councillor Paul Fairweather, lead member on gay men’s issues, commented: “This piece of research yet again shows the need to ensure all teachers are effectively trained to deal with incidents of homophobic abuse and bullying.
Research shows that homophobia is still alive in the workplace. A third of lesbian and gay workers say they are unable to be open about their sexual orientation. But this is not the case at Manchester City Council.
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Tony Harrison, from the Oldham branch of the NUT told the Manchester Evening News: “Homophobia is a destructive force and damages young people because of their sexuality or perceived sexuality.”
Exceeding Expectations has surveyed nearly 3,000 secondary school pupils, and found that 47% felt that their school was not a welcoming or safe place for LGB pupils.
However, Harrison suggests that the teachers surveyed in Oldham are in favour of more training, as three quarters said that they would “welcome training both school wide and individually on addressing homophobia.”
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The research, which focused on five secondary schools in the Oldham area, also found that over half of the teachers surveyed had actually been the target of the homophobic abuse.
The NUT research in Oldham echoes Exceeding Expectations findings in Manchester.
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New research commissioned by the National Union of Teachers has found that 85% of teachers hear homophobic abuse in schools every week.
Supporting lesbian and gay staff in Manchester
Jackie Kay MBE
1961 -
Poet and novelist. “It just so happens that I am black, Scottish and a lesbian – and I’m quite proud of that. It’s annoying because people only get defined by difference. It would be great if they had a ‘white writers’ section in a book shop as it would challenge peoples’ assumptions.”
EXCEEDING
EXPECTATIONS
email: exceedingexpectations@lgf.org.uk • Website: www.exceedingexpectations.org.uk
creating a safe and positive working environment.
Students are provided with a safe space to discuss LGBT issues, ask questions and challenge negative attitudes and assumptions of LGBT people.
The Quality Standards are based on legislation to help schools and colleges to achieve government requirements and create a happier and more supported atmosphere for all students.
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The experience escalates students learning and enables them to decide on personal and collective positive actions to create a happier school environment for all students.
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The Paul Patrick Award is a set of Quality Standards to measure Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual AND Trans students’ access, involvement AND participation in an educational setting.
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These workshops have been developed from over 30 years of experience of face to face work with young people. The workshops are facilitated by trained peer facilitators and sessions take students on a learning journey.
LGBT Youth North West is in the final stages of developing these Quality Standards. Created from over 30 years X ofDservice, 40 combined years ING E PECTover AT EE of work with Iyoung LGBT people and youth work experience and informed by professionals working in the education field, the Quality Standards will be offered through LGBT Youth North West as an addition to the existing Exceeding Expectations support package.
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For further details or to express an interest, please contact Myrtle by e-mail: lgbtyouthnorthwest@ yahoo.co.uk or Telephone: 07531 061 777.
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As part of the Exceeding Expectations Support Package, Lesbian AND Gay Youth Manchester and LGBT Youth North West offer workshops for Students’ to attend.
The Quality Standards are named in honour of Paul Patrick, co-founder of School’s Out; co-creator of LGBT History Month and a pioneer for LGBT people’s rights and visibility especially in the education system. Visit the website: www.schools-out.org.uk
The Paul Patrick Award is available for schools, colleges and youth settings throughout the North West of England. For further details or to express an interest, please contact Myrtle by e-mail: lgbtyouthnorthwest@yahoo. co.uk or Tel: 07531 061 777.
EXCEEDING
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THE PAUL PATRICK QUALITY EXCEEDING STANDARD AWARD EXPECTATIONS STUDENT WORKSHOPS
EXCEEDING
EXPECTATIONS
• ENDING HOMOPHOBIA THROUGH EDUCATION •
OUTLOUD FOR LGBT HISTORY MONTH LGBT History Month has been celebrated in the UK in February since 2005. Its celebration provides schools and other organisations opportunities to focus on, retrieve and establish the stories of the experiences, contributions and achievements of lesbian, gay, bisexual and trans people.
To highlight this, OUTLOUD Exceeding Expectations’ Theatre in Education performance will be presented in more Manchester schools at various locations between 23rd February – 6th March. At the last tour of OUTLOUD undertaken throughout November 2008, Maria Oakley from Healthy Schools and director Adam Zane developed the post-show workshop to great success.
EXPECTATIONS
Evaluations from other educational organisations have proved the positive impact of the workshops in developing both attainment and achievement of students and helping classroom management by
Pupils often want to find out more about the homophobic murder of Matthew Shepard and have a great deal of questions about the issue of hate crime.
On average, 90-95% of the young people who have participated in the workshops agree that their school should support the Zero Tolerance policy. The play provokes a lot of discussion by the young people and subjects raised often include religious attitudes towards homosexuality, coming out in a school environment and where young people can go for help or support.
Exceeding Expectations has also produced an information sheet about Matthew Shepard that points the young people to relevant websites and resources.
PFA and Kick It Out, the body that campaigns for equality and inclusion in football.
Peter Tatchell, the gay rights campaigner, approached the governing body with the idea of “an MTV-style video where leading players were willing to speak out against anti-gay prejudice, with the idea of making it seem uncool.”
“We would like to have the film ready to be shown before the end of the season, preferably April. The Football Association has always sought to take a stand against homophobia.”
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Above: Cast of Outloud
Ending Homophobia,
Empowering People
Ending Homophobia, “We haven’t actually approached anyEmpowering People www.lgf.org.uk individual players yet,” a spokesman www.lgf.org.uk Registered Charity No.1070904 from the FA said,” but the video is definitely going to happen.
Last year Manchester United’s Rio Ferdinand made a statement attacking homophobia, saying it had no place in sport. Mr Tatchell hopes that the video will be shown in schools across the country.
Exceeding Expectations encourages teachers to actively participate in the workshop with the young people and also to contribute to the development of the workshop as the tour continues this year. Exceeding Expectations is currently seeking interest to develop further sessions in schools. If you would like to know more please get in touch. Tel: 07866 445985. E-mail: exceedingexpectations@lgf.org.uk
Once the groups have discussed the obvious first question (who in the cast is actually gay?) they are asked what they themselves can do to end homophobia in their school.
TOP PREMIER LEAGUE PLAYERS TARGETED IN BATTLE AGAINST HOMOPHOBIA
Players from the four English clubs involved in Champions League matches will be among those invited to appear by the FA, who are working in partnership with the
After the pupils have seen the play they participate in a group discussion where some of the issues raised are discussed in greater detail.
The young people are then taken into smaller groups where they are given a chance to ask the actors any questions.
Leading Premier Football League players are to be asked to help the Football Association battle homophobia in football by appearing in a video to be shown on big screens at major stadiums.
HOPE
MANCHESTER SAFEGUARDING CHILDREN BOARD
Theatre Company www.operationfundraiser.com
Children’s services
Manchester Multi-Agency anti-bullying policy and practice network
CONTACT INFORMATION FOR THE EXCEEDING EXPECTATIONS INITIATIVE: Tel: 07866 445985 • email: exceedingexpectations@lgf.org.uk • web: www.exceedingexpectations.org.uk
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The issue of whether they would support a Zero Tolerance policy on both homophobia and racism is also discussed.
CHANGES IN ATTITUDES ACROSS MANCHESTER SCHOOLS The impact of Exceeding Expectations and particularly schools that have participated with the initiative does seem to be having a positive impact in changes to attitudes around homophobia. The latest findings to current attitudes in Manchester schools compare phase 1 (February 2008) phase 2 (May 2008) and phase 3 (November 2008).
In phases 1 and 2, only 2 in 10 pupils understood the meaning of the term, ‘homophobia’. By phase 3, in those same schools, 8 in 10 pupils understand the term. In phases 1 and 2, only 3 in 10 pupils felt it would be safe to come out at school. Schools joining us for the first time in phase 3 also reported similar numbers. However, in schools returning for phase 3, the number of pupils who believe it to be safe to come out, jumps to 7 in 10.
These figures are mirrored almost exactly when pupils are asked whether their school is safe for LGB pupils. A similar picture is painted when pupils were asked whether a member of staff would be able to come out at school. Schools returning to phase 3 of EE reported a doubling in the number of pupils who felt that staff would be able to come out (3 in 10 to nearly 6 in 10). Clearly, EE is helping create a healthier, safer whole school environment.
• ENDING HOMOPHOBIA
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THROUGH EDUCATION
LYING WEEK ANthTI-BUL 17 -21st November is THe anTi-BULLyinG weeK perFecT TiMe To address and HoMopHoBic BULLyinG, in wHicH THe increasinG ways vicTiMs oF sTUdenTs can BecoMe BULLyinG.
Expectations’, In this issue of ‘Exceeding and cover three we look at cyber-bullying, on homophobic ground breaking surveys bullying in schools. We highlight:
● A local survey of Manchester feedback Schools, which has received their from 1,800 pupils, about understanding of homophobia. ● A survey by the Independent Group, Academic Research Studies treated in on how LGBT students are
Manchester teen’s suicide linked to homophobic bullying.
openly gay Lee simpson, 18, was an in Manchester. student from Blackley to come After taking the brave decision of to a string out, Lee was subjected phone calls anonymous and abusive Lee’s about his sexual orientation. homophobic father believes that the to the point calls became unbearable; go on. where Lee could no longer year, Lee Tragically, in March of this home. committed suicide at his Manchester Councillor Paul Fairweather, for Gay City Council’s Lead member suicide Mens Issues said: “The tragic damage of Lee Simpson shows the is still that homophobic bullying in the city. doing to young people is committed Manchester City Council wherever to challenging homophobia duty to work it appears. We all have a no more together to ensure that to such young people are subjected harassment and abuse.”
schools. of 1,145 ● The Stonewall survey on the young people, focusing for gay consequences of bullying pupils. the negative All three surveys highlight bullying has impact that homophobic emphasise on our young people, and ic the need to promote anti-homophob schools, and bullying initiatives in our education. end homophobia through
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YOUNG PEOPLE’S UNDERSTANDING OF HOMOPHOBIA IN MANCHESTER SCHOOLS ’ has ‘exceeding expectations 1,800 already received over in responses from pupils 8 Manchester schools (year across through to sixth form if you 9 Manchester schools). of would like a detailed copy let the findings below please us know. the ● 1 in 4 did not understand the word ‘homophobia’ before play went into the schools. believe a ● 2 in 5 (43%) do not come out pupil would be able to at school. their ● 1 in 2 (47%) feel that and school is NOT a welcoming safe place for LGB pupils. 35% and ● Around 1 in 3 (37%, there 31% respectively) feel that in are no images of LGB people books, school, either in school posters, or any other sources.
feel ● Only 1 in 5 (20%) pupils that the lives & achievements in of LGB people are included lessons. pupils ● Less than 1 in 3 (29%) for help would know where to go an LGB for either themselves or to tears by Julie says: “I’ve been moved friend. Expectations accounts of how Exceeding in Greater has gone down in schools ● 2 in 5 (40%) have witnessed and Manchester. verbal homophobic bullying, reported only 1 in 8 of those (13%) this issue, to It takes courage to address it. to acknowledge take on the homophobia, have exists and that this kind of bullying ● More than 1 in 5 (22%) as unchallenged remains relatively witnessed physical homophobic (10%) opposed to all other forms. bullying, and only 1 in 10 reported it. in a few years If we sow the seeds now said unacceptable as homophobia could be as ● Finally, only 1 in 8 (13%) in our streets. (verbal racism in our schools and that reporting the bullying opportunity anything Please be part of this amazing the and physical) resulted in change it. to change attitudes and actually being done about
S NOW OUTLOUD AND IN SCHOOL staff training, a support package featuring workshops. a DVD presentation, and
available as part A free support pack is also package, which of the OUTLOUD schools DVD presentation includes: staff training, a LGBT young and a workshop led by of performances people. The next round 2009. will be 23 February - 6 March
Theatre in ‘Exceeding Expectation’s’ will be presented Education performance, next month, in more Manchester schools at various with a dozen performances November, with schools between 17-28th
for To book the play and workshopsor email: 445985 your school, Tel: 07866 g.uk exceedingexpectations@lgf.or left), Julie Hesmondhalgh, (pictured DVD which is presents OUTLOUD the available to schools now.
world.”
work of 2008, has recognised the West Public Health Awards to announce that it has won, a STOP PRESS! The North and the project is delighted ip category. ‘Exceeding Expectations’ in the Public Health Partnersh “Highly Commended” citation
For a large print format of this newsletter, please call 0161 235 8035 or email: info@lgf.org.uk