SCOTLAND is set to become the first country in the world to ensure that LGBTI education is embedded within the teaching curriculum.
Deputy First Minister John Swinney announced on Thursday that all state schools will be now supported to teach on a range of LGBTI issues, such as the history of liberation movements and how to tackle homophobia, biphobia and transphobia.
All 33 recommendations from the LGBTI Inclusive Education working group, created after a successful campaign from the Time For Inclusive Education (TIE) campaign, have been accepted in full.
Deputy First Minister John Swinney said he was "delighted" to announce the changes.
He told parliament: “Scotland is already considered one of the most progressive countries in Europe for LGBTI equality. I am delighted to announce we will be the first country in the world to have LGBTI inclusive education embedded within the curriculum.
“Our education system must support everyone to reach their full potential. That is why it is vital the curriculum is as diverse as the young people who learn in our schools.
“The recommendations I have accepted will not only improve the learning experience of our LGBTI young people, they will also support all learners to celebrate their differences, promote understanding and encourage inclusion.”
Jordan Daly, Co-Founder of TIE Campaign, said: "After three years of campaigning, we are delighted that LGBTI inclusive education will now become a reality in all of Scotland's state schools. This is a monumental victory for our campaign, and a historic moment for our country.
“The implementation of LGBTI inclusive education across all state schools is a world first, and in a time of global uncertainty, this sends a strong and clear message to LGBTI young people that they are valued here in Scotland.
“Eighteen years from the repeal of Section 28, we can finally put its destructive legacy to bed.
“Education is one of the most vital tools we have to tackle bullying, prejudice and discrimination - and it shapes the fabric of our society. We now look forward to continuing our work with the Scottish Government as we progress towards full implementation."
Support and guidance will be offered to teachers to improve LGBTI inclusion, and on-going inspections will be carried out to monitor the changes.
Work to implement the recommendations is due to start immediately, and it is expected to have been delivered by the end of the Parliamentary term in May 2021.
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