Here at the Bishop Martin we are delighted to announce that we are now aiming to become holders of The Rainbow Flag Award!

What is it?

The Rainbow Flag Award is a national quality assurance framework for primary schools, secondary schools, SEND schools and colleges. The award focusses on positive LGBT+ (lesbian, gay, bisexual, trans plus other related identities), inclusion and visibility.

The Rainbow Flag Award encourages a whole organisation approach to LGBT+ inclusion, as well as developing strategies to effectively challenge and combat LGBT+phobic bullying.

We are currently starting our journey and are committed to all aspects of equality and diversity and we are really enjoying working towards this and embedding equality for ALL students throughout our curriculum.

To gain the Rainbow Flag award there 6 different sections: Skilled Teacher; Supportive Governors and Parents; Effective Policies; Pastoral Support; Inclusive curriculum and Student Voice.

As a Church of England school is imporant that we are developing an accepting and diverse culture amongst children - Valuing all God's children. - We are all built in God's image regardless of our race, gender, sexuality etc.

This supports our children by:

• Provide awareness that people live their lives in different ways.
• Acknowledging that it is usual to have families of different dynamics.
• An open conversation that acknowledges that it is usual to be straight, lesbian, gay, bisexual or trans.
• Having an awareness that if we use these terms in a negative way, it can hurt people’s feelings.
• Avoiding the prejudiced use of stereotypes.
• Confidence / reassurance to be who they want to be.
• Eliminating the concious bias in our minds that reject differences.

Our School

• We will empower the children to feel safe in our school community and feel they have respect.
• Children will have somebody to talk too and open up to when they feel necessary.
• If a child wished to talk, then as we are a primary school, we would ensure that the child knew that they didn’t have to label themselves now, that there is no pressure unless they wish to use a label and let them know that they may change how they feel and the label they give themselves throughout their lives – having a label is a choice.
• If we improve the visibility of LGBT to be accepted as part of our diverse world then the children will grow up to be respectful and inclusive of all those around them in their communities.
• School policies will adopt an inclusive approach to all minority groups.

For further details, please go to www.rainbowflagaward.co.uk