ASCL’s LGBT+ Leaders' Network facilitates support, information, and networking opportunities for the organisation's LGBT+ members and their allies.
Whether you joined us for our first network meeting back in December 2020, came along to listen to Lord Cashman talk about celebrating human rights, hear Steve Chalke speak about faith and inclusion, or have never contemplated being part of this network, you are welcome to join us for all or any of our planned events this academic year.
ASCL’s LGBT+ Leaders' Network usually meets virtually once a month at 7pm. As part of our commitment to being an inclusive network, rest assured we don’t check ‘credentials’ at the door, so please don’t feel like you have to be a particular letter to belong!
The purpose of our network is to:
- connect school, college and trust leaders
- allow LGBT+ leaders to be visible and chip away at the narrative that they need to remain in the shadows rather than be their authentic self at work if they choose
- provide a space for leaders to feel like there are others out there like them
- provide a space for leaders to talks things through that affect them professionally
- provide opportunities to listen to others and support colleagues
The network extends beyond the monthly meetings and if you want, you can be added to the TEAMS channel where ideas and resources are shared. The network also exists for outreach, and the wisdom and experience that exists within the network has been of considerable benefit to the wider ASCL membership. This, combined with the expertise of the
ASCL Hotline, ensure a wealth of guidance on LGBT+ related issues for members to draw on.
Some members have commented that the network has made them feel more confident, empowered them to be the change we so often talk about, and others are just happy to know something like this exists should they wish to get more involved in the future.
Meetings
We recently reached out to network members for their views on the kind of shape the network should take as we move into 2025 and beyond. Accordingly, the new shape of the network will be:
| Autumn Term 1 |
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The power of our stories: this will be an opportunity for members to share, inspire and find inspiration from other members. |
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| Autumn Term 2 |
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An evening with ...:this meeting will be with a guest speaker who has a specific LGBT+ focus |
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Spring Term 1
Thursday 23 January, 7 -8pm |
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Joint meeting with the New Teacher Network: Preparing for LGBT+ History Month with Professor Emeritus Sue Sanders, Chair of Schools Out UK and co-founder of LGBT+ Histoy Month UK. Sign up for this meeting here. |
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| Wednesday 5 March, 7-8pm |
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An evening with Lord Chris Smith, Master of Pembroke College: The Rt. Hon. Lord Smith of Finsbury was Labour MP for Islington South and Finsbury (1983-2005) and Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport (1997-2001). As Culture Secretary, he restored free entry to all national museums and galleries. He stepped down from parliament at the 2005 general election and was made a life peer later that year. He was Chairman of the Environment Agency (2008-2014) and the Advertising Standards Authority (2006-2017), the Wordsworth Trust (2004-2017) and the Donmar Warehouse Theatre (2003-2015). He is the author of Creative Britain (1998) and was Britain's first openly gay MP. |
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| Spring Term 2 |
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Roundtable: influence evening with DfE, politicians, ASCL colleagues and other possible guests. |
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| Summer Term 1 |
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An evening with...: this meeting will feature a guest speaker(s) who has a professional focus |
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| Summer Term 2 |
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In-person events: regional Pride events and other appropriate events. |
Dates will be confirmed as soon as known.
Rich Atterton
Co-Chair, ASCL LGBT+ Leaders' Network
Assistant Headteacher, The Marlborough Science Academy
ASCL Council: East of England Representative, Honorary Secretary and on ASCL - Conditions and Employment Committee
Edel Cronin
Co-Chair, ASCL LGBT+ Leaders' Network
Principal, Fairfield High School
To find out more and to join the ASCL LGBT+ Leaders' Network, please complete the online form below. If you have any further queries, please contact CorporateAdmin@ascl.org.uk