Gender variant children, Trans young people and adults have been receiving more attention in recent years. This may be due to the introduction of the The Equality Act 2010 which substantially strengthened the law that supports and protects Gender variant children and Trans young people, citing gender reassignment as a protected characteristic. This legal protection enabled Trans people to feel more comfortable in revealing their true gender identity.

Regarding protection from discrimination of pupils, staff and parents with the protected characteristic of gender reassignment in schools please see refer to page 17 3.3 – 3.6 of The Equality Act 2010 and Schools: Departmental advice for school leaders, school staff, governing bodies and local authorities

This is a phrase that has been heard more frequently over the last few years, with children and young people in our settings, schools and colleges questioning the gender they were ascribed at birth and exploring their gender identity.

A number of issues in schools will impact on Gender variant children and Trans young people including transphobic bullying and gender specific language, practices and activities. Research and recommendations on Transgender Equality are available from the Women and Equalities Committee and Stonewall.

The Education People are committed to protecting the rights, wellbeing and safeguarding of Gender variant children and Trans young people within Kent. We are aware of the challenges these often vulnerable children and young people face, particularly in these difficult times, when access to support agencies is limited. If you are working with families, children or young people and would like additional support please contact The Inclusion Support Service Kent.

To enhance Trans inclusion and eliminate transphobia ISSK currently offer the following.

• Advice, support and training for teachers and staff to help meet the needs of Trans pupils within their school and also help those who proactively decide to learn more about trans inclusion in order to be able to help prospective pupils.
• ‘Supporting Gender Variant and Trans Young People’ training for staff in schools, colleges and settings. This can be delivered bespoke to your establishment or accessed through CPD Online. Please let us know if you would be interested in booking or attending training.
• Policy review and development.
• Support for families of Gender variant children and Trans young people,  Trans pupils and Trans staff.
• PSHE and RSE Curriculum Development – eliminating unnecessary gendered stereotypes, promoting Trans inclusion, celebrating family diversity, upholding Trans equality.
• Exploring age appropriate Trans  friendly books.