Not only is it our final month of the academic year, but June also sees the global celebration of Pride Month. A time where people from all over the globe come together to remember the power of individualism and tolerance for all.
In this Monday's Whole School Assembly, Head of the College's Diversity and Inclusion Team, Mr Andy Jones, spoke to the pupils about the importance of this month not just for members of the LGBTQ+ community, but beyond. And, in a following email to all members of the College community, the team added:
Whilst Pride is a celebration that primarily focuses on supporting members and allies of the LGBTQ+ community, it goes further than that and we would like to extend this thinking and reflection of Pride and tie it with two of the College’s core values – inclusive and individual. It is about communities coming together to support each other and look out for everyone, treating all with respect and tolerance.
Here at our school, we are a true community. We come together to look out for our friends, peers and colleagues. So, my challenge to you for this month and beyond is to continue to build our amazing community, look out for all of those around you, to be kind, and to be accepting of everyone!
In true Shiplake style, we have shown our support for Pride month by the following:
- Changing our social media logos to include the Pride flag
- Flying the Pride flag from Skipwith Tower for the month
- With help from Mr Jones, Mrs Green and our fantastic maintenance team, painting one of our road crossings in the Pride colours
You may have already crossed the Pride flag this morning but if you haven’t, we do urge you to go and have a look at it and every time you cross, think about supporting those around you and use that message for the month.
To end in the words of pride, 'love is love'; show your love for those around you.
Have a fabulous term.
Shiplake College Diversity and Inclusion Team
Also in the Assembly, Lay Chaplain Mr Alcock led the College in a prayer:
Father of all, we give you thanks and praise, that when we were still far off you met us in your Son and brought us home. Give us your grace to treat all people made in your image with respect and kindness, for Jesus' sake, Amen.
