At least two Scottish schools faced backlash over allegations that teachers were encouraged not to tell parents their children are transgender. The Telegraph reported that both schools worked with LGBT Youth Scotland, a national charity for LGBTQ+ youth aged 13-25.
Coming-out guide
Knox Academy, one of the oldest schools in the world, was founded in the XIV century. It reportedly has a coming-out guide for teachers and other school staffers. It allegedly says it is better not to tell parents about their children’s social transitions, including pronouns, clothing, and even name changes during school hours.
Another school was named
North Berwick High, also in East Lothian, Scotland, allegedly held the talks about possible issues that could appear if parents revealed name changes, for example. The Telegraph reported that both schools worked with LGBT Youth Scotland, a charity for LGBTQ+ youth ages 13 to 25.
LGBT champions
A charity assists parents of LGBTQ+ youth, not only the children. But, some primary schools in Scotland are appointing students as “LGBT champions.” According to reports, staffers are urged to talk about sexuality with children as young as four.
Not disclosing information
According to the Telegraph, Knox Academy East Lothian’s guideline includes coming-out instructions for staffers and explains why parents should be kept in the dark. The guideline illustrates that a child’s gender identity might still be a secret at home, so to avoid additional stress, it should be a secret.
The staff should not deny children’s identity
Additionally, the guideline stated that staffers should ask a child for their name, pronouns, and gender instead of going to what was in the records. This is reportedly a way to prevent the children from being denied their identity. North Berwick High adopted some policies in 2022, but name changes were made with parental consent. Changes could disrupt the system.
Not telling parents
The reports claim that these initiatives urge staffers not to tell parents about their children’s social transitions unless the child is in danger. Furthermore, the same charity promotes gender and sexual orientation alliance groups for children and advises schools to install gender-neutral toilets.
Some believe this is unprofessional
Deputy Director for Public Affairs at The Christian Institute Simon Calvert said that social transition can have medical implications and should, therefore, be handled by professionals. Calvert added that socially transitioning children while keeping parents out of it is unprofessional.
The policies were based on the government’s guidelines
East Lothian Council spokesperson told the Telegraph that the policies were based on Scottish Government guidelines, adding that children’s rights were protected by the Equality Act 2010, Getting it Right for Every Child, the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child, and other legislation.
Safe environment
The spokesperson claims this creates a learning environment that is safe and inclusive for all. However, a recent Cass Review, submitted by Dr. Hilary Cass, argues that social transition can lead to irreversible medical treatments. The doctor also criticized the stigma surrounding transgender people, citing it prevents honest conversations.
The doctor is worried
The review noted that systematic evidence reviews demonstrated the poor quality of the published studies. Therefore, there is no reliable evidence base for making clinical decisions or for children and their families to make informed choices. It added that hormone use for those below 18 still carries many uncertainties.
The charity works with half of the Scottish schools
The charity works with over half of Scottish secondary and 40 primary schools. The Scottish government backs the program. The government also works with Scottish Trans Alliance, Stonewall Scotland, Mermaids, and the official page, which offers films and books for LGBTQ+ youth and their parents.
Schools gained recognition in 2023
In January 2023, Dunbar Grammar School, Knox Academy in Haddington, and Ross High School in Tranent were recognized by the LGBT Charter for their inclusion. The LGBT Charter is part of LGBT Youth Scotland. The charity reportedly gains around £1 million annually or over $1,2 million US dollars.
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