AoC responds to the government's consultation on transgender guidance

David Hughes, Chief Executive, Association of Colleges, said:

“This consultation on transgender guidance for schools and colleges is tricky territory. Colleges will always put the needs of their students first and we all know that there are very strong and divergent views about what that means in practice, so it is essential to have a meaningful and inclusive consultation.

“Colleges are often the first safe place where young people can truly start to work out who they are, and to express themselves freely. We are proud of that and of the brilliant work colleges do in supporting students of all ages. It is important that any guidance therefore has the wellbeing of students at its core, helps colleges in practical ways to support all students, and recognises what students tell staff about their identities.

“Colleges prepare students for life as well as employment in diverse workplaces; in both they will encounter people with a range of identities. So it benefits all students to learn in an environment in which the full diversity of staff and students is respected and celebrated.

“It’s absolutely essential that the government engages fully with colleges on this. We are encouraging our members to respond to the consultation and AoC looks forward to working with the government to develop guidance.”