Sexual Abuse in Schools LGBT+ Pupils 2021-06-21
2021-06-21
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Response quality
Questions & Answers
Q1
Partial Answer
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Context
Ofsted published a report on 10 June 2021 highlighting the issue of sexual abuse in schools and colleges, specifically noting that some groups like LGBT+ pupils are potentially more at risk.
With reference to the Ofsted report published on 10 June 2021 entitled 'Review of sexual abuse in schools and colleges', what steps is the Department taking to support LGBT+ pupils to report incidences of harmful sexual behaviour in school?
Schools are under a legal duty to safeguard and promote the welfare of all children and must have regard to keeping children safe in education. The guidance is clear that, while anyone can be a victim of abuse, schools should recognise that some groups, including LGBTQ+ pupils, are potentially more at risk.
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Assessment & feedback
The answer does not provide specific steps being taken by the Department to support LGBT+ pupils in reporting incidents of harmful sexual behaviour.
Response accuracy
Q2
Partial Answer
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Context
The Ofsted report highlighted a significant gap between the awareness of teachers regarding incidents involving LGBT children and the reality experienced by those children.
I thank my hon. Friend for her answer, but she will know that the Ofsted report identified a huge discrepancy between the knowledge of teachers of incidents that are harmful to young LGBT children and the actual experience of it, so what steps can the Department take to train teachers to recognise how harmful sexual behaviour actually affects LGBT young people?
The Government are committed to working with school leaders, governors and teachers to improve how they can better recognise the effects of sexual harassment and abuse, and better support victims. We expect the issues raised by LGBTQ+ pupils to be addressed as part of this really important work.
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Assessment & feedback
The answer does not specify concrete steps or training measures for teachers to improve their recognition of harmful sexual behaviour affecting LGBT young people.
Response accuracy