Announcing Our New Online CPD Course!

It’s been in the works for quite some time, but we are excited to finally announce our new online CPD LGBTQ course! This course has been designed to provide comprehensive training on LGBTQ+ awareness and inclusion in educational settings. It is called the Award in LGBTQ+ Inclusivity in Education. This course has been developed by the team at Brooks and Kirk and is designed to help you create a more inclusive and welcoming workplace.

Why is it Important to be LGBTQ Inclusive?

A Safe and Inclusive Environment

As an employer or educator, you have a responsibility to create a safe and welcoming environment for all. Whether they are students, employees or your colleagues, and regardless of their sexual orientation or gender identity. Being LGBTQ+ inclusive means creating policies and practices that recognise and respect the diversity of your workforce or students.

Creating an inclusive workplace is not only the right thing to do; but it’s also good for business. Companies that prioritise diversity, equity, and inclusion are more likely to attract and retain talented employees. It also improves both employee and student engagement and productivity!

Reduces Bullying and Discrimination

In addition to these practical benefits, there is a moral imperative to create an inclusive workplace that values and respects people of all gender identities and sexual orientations. According to Stonewall, nearly one in five LGBTQ+ employees have experienced verbal harassment or bullying in the workplace. One in eight have experienced physical violence or threats. This kind of discrimination can have a severe impact on a student’s mental health, job satisfaction, and overall wellbeing.

By promoting LGBTQ+ inclusivity in education, schools can help to reduce bullying and discrimination against LGBTQ+ students, which can lead to a more positive and supportive learning environment.

Challenges Stereotypes and Biases

LGBTQ+ inclusive education can help to challenge stereotypes and biases that exist around gender and sexual orientation. Traditional gender norms have been rigidly defined as being binary. In many societies, anything that falls outside of the ‘norm’ is often stigmatised. This can lead to harmful stereotypes and biases against individuals who identify as LGBTQ+.

By incorporating LGBTQ+ inclusive education into the curriculum, students are taught about the diverse range of gender and sexual identities. This helps to challenge these stereotypes and biases. In turn, it helps to promote a more accepting and understanding society that celebrates diversity and inclusivity.

Promotes Social Justice

LGBTQ+ inclusive education is a form of social justice. It promotes equal rights and opportunities for all individuals, regardless of their sexual orientation, gender identity, or gender expression. Historically, LGBTQ+ individuals have faced discrimination and marginalisation in many areas of society, including education. By teaching students about LGBTQ+ issues, schools can help to promote a more just and equitable society. This can be achieved by educating students about LGBTQ+ history, culture, and contributions to society.

This knowledge helps to promote acceptance and understanding of the LGBTQ+ community. This leads to a society where everyone is treated with dignity and respect. Moreover, it helps LGBTQ+ students feel seen and included in a society that has historically been hostile towards them, thus reducing feelings of marginalisation and increasing their self-esteem and confidence.

The Award in LGBTQ+ Inclusivity in Education

By taking our LGBTQ+ CPD course, you’ll gain the knowledge and tools to create an inclusive workplace that values and respects all employees and students. You’ll learn how to use inclusive language; create gender-neutral policies; and support LGBTQ+ employees and students in a meaningful way.

You’ll also learn about the protected characteristics within the Equality Act of 2010. This is an important piece of legislation, as there have been companies taken to the employment tribunal because they didn’t comply with the Protected Characteristics or were discriminatory to someone who was protected under the Equality Act of 2010.

The course is made up of five modules, each focused on a specific aspect of LGBTQ+ education.

1. In the first module, you will gain an in-depth understanding of gender identity and the LGBTQ acronym. This module covers essential definitions and key terms.
2. The second module covers inclusive language and pronouns. It provides you with an understanding of common pronouns and why people may change them.
3. In the third module, we highlight the importance of key terms for educators in gender identity. The purpose is to avoid misgendering and causing harm to your students.
4. Module four focuses on creating a welcoming and supportive environment for your LGBTQ+ students. This includes using gender-neutral honorifics and job titles.
5. Finally, module five offers different strategies for supporting your LGBTQ+ students. We teach you the ways you can promote inclusivity in the learning environment to foster diversity, equity, and inclusion.

You will also have access to a ton of resources made by the team free for you to use in the workplace.

Why Should I Take an LGBTQ Course?

This course is perfect for anyone who wants to increase their knowledge of LGBTQ+ awareness, language, and terminology. Whether you’re an educator, an employer, or work in HR, this online training course will provide you with the necessary tools and strategies to create an inclusive workplace.

Our course is delivered online, allowing you to complete it at your own pace and in your own time. This flexibility means that you can fit the training around your busy schedule. The course is interactive, including quizzes and activities to help you engage with the material. Plus, you’ll have access to Brooks and Kirk’s unlimited tutor support. Not only that, but you’ll also receive a host of helpful resources for you to use in the classroom, workplace or even at home.

Once you have finished the course, you’ll receive an official physical certificate of completion for your CPD record. As a limited-time introductory offer, the course costs £45 per learner and will count as 2 hour of verified CPD for your log.

At Brooks and Kirk, we are committed to providing high-quality training that is accessible and inclusive. Our LGBTQ+ CPD course is just one example of our dedication to creating a more diverse and welcoming world. Enrol now and join us in creating an inclusive workplace.

If you have any questions, please give us a call on 01205 805 155 or send an email to training@brooksandkirk.ac.uk. Get started today on our introductory offer, just £45 down from £90.