Quality Mark

The LGBTQ+ Quality Mark is designed to assist post-primary staff in creating safe and supportive schools that are fully inclusive of Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender and Queer (LGBTQ+) young people. It provides a comprehensive approach to promoting wellbeing and inclusion for LGBTQ+ young people in schools and Youthreach centres across Ireland.

The LGBTQ+ Quality Mark focuses on the four key areas of wellbeing promotion from an LGBTQ+ perspective:

• Creating an LGBTQ+ inclusive culture and environment.
• Resourcing an LGBTQ+ inclusive curriculum.
• Nurturing LGBTQ+ inclusive relationships and partnerships.
• Supporting LGBTQ+ inclusive policies and planning. 

Why is the Quality Mark needed?

In Ireland, 76% of LGBTQ+ students do not feel safe at school. However, research shows that effective school-based interventions can improve the lives and experiences of LGBTQ+ students.

Since 2022, over 100 schools and Youthreach centres have embarked on the 18-month journey to become a LGBTQ+ Quality Mark accredited school.

St. Benildus College was one of the first schools in Ireland to become accredited in 2022, which shows our continued support for inclusion of all students.

Who to contact if you have more questions?

Our LGBTQ+ support team is made up of three teachers - Ms. Lloyd, Mr. Hanley and Mr. Clancy. If you have any questions about where to find follow up information or supports, please reach out.

Alternatively, you can contact any member of the School Guidance Team, Ms. Beadle, Ms. Mulvihill & Ms. Minnock, if you are concerned about your child's well-being.