Stand Out (LGBTQIA+)

A part of our Youth Health and Wellbeing - School and Community programs, Stand Out groups are dedicated to creating safe and inclusive environments for the schools' rainbow community.


Description

Facilitated by schools, Stand Out groups provide safe, inclusive, fun environments that support students who are LGBTQIA+ and/or questioning their sexuality or gender identity, and allies.

LGBTQIA+ students can have a rough time at school. Students from schools with Stand Out groups have told us that they feel safer, have made friends, heard less homophobic or transphobic language, and were more confident to challenge it when they did hear it. Through collaboration, we work towards raising awareness of LGBTQIA+ issues and fostering a culture of respect and celebration.

The Youth Development Unit (YDU) ensures that schools can establish and sustain Stand Out groups effectively, facilitated through our Stand Out Community of Practice (SOCOP) for secondary school staff.

We also provide Inclusive Practice Training to schools to upskill staff members to better support LGBTQIA+ students. 

Aims

  • To create a safe environment that is free from bullying and abuse for LGBTQIA+ students to meet, share experiences and have fun.
  • To advocate for the rainbow community within the school, promote and celebrate days of significance, and raise awareness.
  • To increase the capacity of school staff to support LGBTQIA+ students in all aspects of the school environment.

Outcomes

  • Promotion of a safe and inclusive environment for LGBTQIA+ students at school.
  • Celebration of rainbow community days of significance to the broader school community (IDAHOBIT, Wear It Purple, Pride Month, etc).
  • Increased visibility and safety for LGBTQIA+ students and school community.
  • Structured leadership team to support Stand Out groups and embed the program within your school’s culture.
  • Empowerment of students to take on leadership roles, advocate for their peers, and raise awareness of LGBTQIA+ issues within the school environment.

Target group

Students who are LGBTQIA+ and/or questioning their sexuality or gender identity, and allies. 

Delivery requirements

  • Allocation of school staff committed to fostering a supportive and inclusive school environment to facilitate the group.
  • Access to a suitable space such as a classroom, meeting room, or designated wellbeing area during school lunch breaks.
  • Engagement of school staff in our SOCOP for ongoing learning and support.
  • Resources for fun and engaging activities.

Linked Programs

Bookings

If you are a staff member and would like to organise a Stand Out group at your school please contact [email protected].

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Page last updated: Tuesday, 22 October 2024

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