For many prospective LGBTQ+ parents, concerns about their future child’s experiences at school can be a source of anxiety. Worries may centre on how their family structure will be perceived and whether their child will feel accepted by their peers and teachers. In today’s evolving educational landscape, the need for inclusive and diverse learning environments has never been more important.
One school leading the way in promoting inclusion is Roath Park Primary School in Cardiff. Known for its progressive approach to diversity, Roath Park actively supports LGBTQ+ families and champions equality in education.
A Curriculum Built on Inclusion
In a conversation with Lewis Fitzgerald, Headteacher at Roath Park Primary, he explains how the school embeds diversity and inclusion at the heart of its learning environment.
“At Roath Park Primary School, diversity and inclusion aren’t just buzzwords—they’re woven into the fabric of the curriculum,” Lewis explains. “Our teaching methods and learning experiences are carefully designed to reflect the diverse community our pupils are part of.”
Inclusive lessons on family structures, relationships, and identity are integrated into Relationship and Sex Education (RSE), Citizenship, and Personal, Social, Health, and Economic (PSHE) classes. Rather than treating these topics as standalone subjects, the school incorporates real-life examples and visual materials, such as photos of diverse families within their school community, to ensure children see themselves — and others — reflected in everyday learning. Inclusive reading materials further enrich this experience, helping to normalise and celebrate family diversity.
Policies That Prioritise Respect
Beyond the classroom, Roath Park has established comprehensive policies that ensure LGBTQ+ families are recognised, respected, and protected. Lewis highlights the school’s Positive Relationships Policy, Hate Crime Policy, and Learning and Teaching Policy as key frameworks that reinforce these values.
“We want families to know that any concerns are taken seriously,” says Lewis. “Our Complaints Policy ensures that issues are handled thoughtfully, underscoring the commitment of our leadership team and Governing Body to represent and respect everyone in our school community.”
The school’s dedication to equality is further reflected in its prominent equality statements, which emphasise respect for all protected characteristics. For Roath Park, the motto ‘Living Together, Learning Together, Growing Together’ isn’t just a slogan — it’s a philosophy that shapes the school’s culture.
Proactive Measures to Prevent Bullying
While Roath Park has clear policies to manage bullying or teasing, Lewis is keen to stress that prevention is at the forefront of their approach.
“We don’t just react to incidents — we take proactive steps to prevent them,” he explains. “By fostering a culture of openness, understanding, and respect, we aim to create an environment where differences are celebrated, not targeted.”
This approach includes community-building initiatives and active engagement with the UNICEF Convention on non-discrimination, reinforcing the school’s commitment to ensuring every child feels safe, valued, and included.
A Beacon of Inclusion in Education
Roath Park Primary School stands as a shining example of how schools can create safe, supportive, and inclusive environments where all families — including those with LGBTQ+ parents — feel welcome. By combining a diverse curriculum, clear policies, and proactive community engagement, Roath Park not only educates its pupils but also empowers them to embrace and celebrate diversity.
For LGBTQ+ parents concerned about their child’s school experience, Roath Park’s commitment offers hope — demonstrating that schools can be places where every child, no matter their family background, is supported and embraced.
Author: Shaun Houcke
#InclusiveEducation
#LGBTQFamilies
#DiversityInSchools
#EqualityInEducation
#SupportingLGBTQParents
#InclusiveCurriculum
#CelebratingDiversity
#SafeSchoolsForAll
#RoathParkPrimary
#EducationForEveryone
