Trans @ School
A companion resource for trans and gender diverse students is available here.
Download the Trans@School guide for educators (PDF File, 717.7 KB) .
Why is getting it right so important?
All students and their families should feel that they belong in their school community. A sense of belonging is conducive to an environment in which students feel confident to participate, and which enables them to reach their full potential.
Being supportive and inclusive of trans and gender diverse students should be embedded in the school’s culture, and not just ‘on show’ in the presence of people who belong to the trans and gender diverse community. There may be many students in a school community who have not ‘come out’, or who have family and friends who are trans and gender diverse. Behaviours, attitudes, and language should always be inclusive in order to avoid hurting or offending others.
Trans and gender diverse students are at significant risk of developing difficulties with mental health including anxiety, depression and suicidal thoughts. The experience of discrimination and bullying can be a barrier to fully participating in aspects of life, school and relationships. It impacts one’s sense of emotional and physical safety which can impact on healthy emotional development.
For further information on the association between life experiences and the mental health of trans and gender diverse young people in Australia, refer to the Trans Pathways Study
Using this resource
A pdf version of this resource is available to download, or you can navigate through it online:
- Introduction to Trans @ School
- Terminology
- Introduction to discrimination and human rights
- Support for a transitioning student
- Names and pronouns
- School documentation and records
- Medical information or medical evidence
- Privacy
- New enrolments
- Handling enrolments in single-sex schools
- Toilets and change room facilities
- Uniforms and dress standards
- Sports and physical activities
- Gender-specific activities, camps and excursions
- Bullying
- When parents or carers are not supportive
- Managing reactions of the school community
- Dealing with peer groups, parents, P&C associations and others
- Sample diversity and inclusion policies