Supporting GLBTI Students
Many teachers and school counsellors feel overwhelmed and underprepared for when a student discloses their sexual orientation or gender identity. A recent Australian study,"Writing Themselves In 3", written by Lynne Hiller, found that young people of diverse genders, sexes and sexualities (including those who identify as gay, lesbian, bisexual, transgender, intersex, queer and gender questioning) are less likely to attempt suicide or self harm if they are greeted with a positive response to their identity.
Rejection from peers, parents and family members based on sexual orientation or gender identity is still a reality for many young people. They have the challenge of developing their sense of self and wellbeing in a world that is predominantly judgmental and unsupportive. As a result, a disproportionate number of same-sex attracted or gender diverse young people end up homeless, misusing alcohol or other drugs, and/or with poor mental health outcomes, including self harm and suicidality. This highlights a critical duty of care for teachers and school counsellors in responding positively if and when a student discloses their sexual orientation or gender identity, also known as ‘coming out’.
This two hour seminar is taking place on Tuesday 6 September at Federation House from 4.30pm and will be accredited with the NSW Institute of Teachers for maintenance of professional competence. This seminar is presented by the NSWTF Trade Union Training and Terence Humphreys from Twenty10 will introduce you to the basics of same-sex attraction and gender diversity, what the latest research reflects, as well as outlining better-practice principles for responding positively to students who disclose their identity.
Applications for the seminar are available on our website or by contacting Trade Union Training on (02) 9217 2198.
If you require further information or have other enquiries, please contact David Wynne, Trade Union Training Officer on 1300 654 369, (02) 9217 2100 or by email to tut@nswtf.org.au
