Context matters: Supporting staff working with LGBT students in schools

Australian Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender and Intersex (LGBTI) young people report high levels of bullying, harassment, and discrimination at school, resulting in negative educational and health outcomes (see Hillier et al., 2010; Robinson et al., 2014). Previous Australian research has identified significant need for LGBTI-inclusive teaching practice and schooling environments (Jones & Hillier, 2012). Australian and international research consistently indicates that inclusive school cultures improve the educational outcomes and health and wellbeing of LGBTI students in addition to promoting broader student wellbeing and school satisfaction. However, little is known about how Tasmanian school staff are supporting LGBTI students in schools or what teachers’ needs are in creating and sustaining inclusive school environments.