Pride Conference at Sale Grammar School

On Thursday, Mr Vernon and I took a group of pupils to a Pride Conference, hosted by Sale Grammar School. There were also pupils in attendance from other schools in the Trafford area (Sale High School and Blessed Thomas Holford Catholic College). The turnout was fantastic; with about 50 pupils in total and a variety of staff, all of whom contribute to their whole school values and aims surrounding diversity and inclusivity. The event started with a talk from Guest Speaker Chief Inspector Lee Broadstock about the struggles that many young LGBTQ+ people face in school, society and the workplace. Mr Broadstock also discussed his own experiences within the police and emphasised the importance and need for acceptance of the LGBTQ+ community. Pupils really resonated with this.

Pupils then engaged in a range of activities and got to network with other pupils from local schools. The whole day was brilliant and pupils thoroughly enjoyed the opportunity to meet other pupils. They also enjoyed hearing from a professional advocate who does a lot of work for the LGBTQ+ community within the police. Overall, myself and Mr Vernon have learnt a lot, as have the pupils. It is very much hoped, that this event will become an annual one, with a growing network of pupils coming together across schools in Trafford, to celebrate diversity and inclusion.

Miss Tedford