Richard McDonald

I will present findings from both my own MBA research and the wider literature on the impact that LGBTQ+ leaders and teachers in schools have on ensuring inclusive environments where LGBTQ+ young people can thrive. I will take participants through the impact LGBTQ+ staN can have on formal elements of schooling (such as inclusive curricula and policies) as well as considering their impact through pastoral support and as role models. Delivered in a workshop format, delegates will discuss and critically evaluate the findings from the research before considering how we can work to enable LGBTQ+ leaders and teachers to have a positive impact on the LGBTQ+ young people that they serve. Why this session is needed/key takeaways: The research demonstrates that role models and representation are a powerful force in challenging negative stereotypes and victimhood narratives for LGBTQ+ young people. LGBTQ+ leaders and teachers also play an important role in both supporting and advocating for LGBTQ+ young people in schools. However, simply relying on LGBTQ+ staN to be role models and drive inclusive schools is not without its problems; a nuanced understanding of what this means in context is important to enable LGBTQ+ staN to have a positive impact on young people without compromising their own wellbeing. This session will aid delegates in developing a critical understanding of the role that LGBTQ+ school leaders and staN can play in LGBTQ+ inclusion through an exploration of research findings and discussion of how these can be applied in the current context.