Inclusion award for Sligo school’s commitment to embedding LGBTQ+ inclusion

St. Attracta's Community School in Tubbercurry is the first to be awarded the LGBTQ+ Quality Mark for their commitment to LGBTQ+ inclusion. The post-primary school recently finished an 18-month journey embedding LGBTQ+ inclusion across their people, policies and practices.

The LGBTQ+ Quality Mark initiative is a holistic approach to LGBTQ+ inclusion in post-primary schools that involves the whole school community.

Over 18 months, schools are supported in implementing evidence-based actions across several key areas, which research shows improves the wellbeing and safety of LGBTQ+ students. The LGBTQ+ Quality Mark was created with support from Google.org.

Students, teachers and principals from 37 schools came together to receive their award at a celebratory event at The Foundry, Google Headquarters in Dublin.

The Q Mark Coordinator from St Attracta’s said at the event; “St. Attracta's Community School strives to be an inclusive experience for all.  We hope that anyone accessing the school feels welcome and safe.  The Quality Mark experience has provided us with opportunities to engage in training, discussions and research that has been rewarding, informative and very positive for all in the school community.” 

Speaking at the event, Minister of State and TD for Dublin West Jack Chambers, said, “The Government is committed to ensuring the safety, equality and inclusion of all students, including our LGBTQ+ students, by creating safe, supportive and inclusive school environments for all.”