Abstract

Is there a need to challenge homophobic name-calling and other homophobic bullying in your school but uncertainty about how to address it?

That's So Gay! is a practical guide to making your school a safer place and creating an inclusive bully-free culture. It shows what homophobic bullying looks like, who experiences it and explores the reasons why young people bully others homophobically. It also reveals why young people are often reluctant to report homophobic bullying, the increasing role played by the internet and the profound effects bullying can have well into adulthood. Adopting a whole-school approach, this book provides all the advice schools need on prevention, working with those who bully, handling disclosures and anti-bullying policies.

Written by an expert in the field, this is a vital guide for schools, teachers and anyone with a duty of care towards young people.

I know I have been guilty in the past of being a teacher that has occasionally 'tactically ignored' the very comment that makes up the title of this book; this fact made reading it uncomfortable at times. The stark facts around the impact of homophobic bullying paired with the practical advice have made That's So Gay! an agent for change in my school.
Vic Goddard, Principal of Passmores Academy and star of Educating Essex
Charlesworth reminds us that simply saying "homophobic bullying will not be tolerated" will not magically lead to a change in attitudes. Instead he shows how to educate pupils to understand the meaning and impact of their behaviour, guiding them towards alternative behaviour and grounding them morally, ethically and socially. Gay pupils are often offered few opportunities to acquire coping strategies or learn how to be resilient in the face of homophobic bullying or name-calling. This book focuses on celebrating achievements in the school as a whole in combatting prejudice-driven bullying, and fostering a positive culture so that no pupil has to live a life out of authenticity - in which lies are told others (and even oneself) about who one 'is'. This is essential reading for senior leaders, governors and staff.
Adrienne Katz, Director of Youthworks Consulting Ltd and author of Cyberbullying and E-Safety: What Educators and Other Professionals Need to Know
This book provides a wealth of useful information and guidance for schools about homophobic bullying. It is incumbent upon schools to? challenge homophobia and homophobic attitudes. Bullying of LGB pupils by their peers can only be resolved through education.
Christine Blower, General Secretary, National Union of Teachers
Jonathan Charlesworth is the Executive Director of the charity Educational Action Challenging Homophobia (EACH), UK. He has over thirty years' teaching and training experience and regularly delivers training and consultancy on homophobic bullying, harassment and crime to schools, colleges, universities, the police service plus other statutory and voluntary sector agencies internationally. He is included within the Expert Adviser's database of the National Crime Agency and is a frequent presenter at conferences.
The NASUWT has a long history of campaigning against homophobia and transphobia in schools and of promoting LGBT equality. All schools need effective strategies for identifying and tackling homophobia. Prejudice damages lives and adversely affects health and well-being. No child's life chances should be blighted by bullying. Schools and teachers will find That's So Gay! a useful resource which provides clear, practical advice and guidance on identifying the signs of homophobia. Importantly, it also raises awareness of the impact this has on those who are bullied and suggests preventive measures. It will enable schools to develop and implement effective anti-bullying policies for the whole school community.
Chris Keates, NASUWT General Secretary, The Teachers’ Union