Tackling homophobia in schools is no easy feat. It takes determination and courage. Just like all forms of discrimination, LGBT people continue to struggle for equality. You may have read in the papers recently about a project called No Outsiders by the University of Sunderland.

The project uses children’s books to introduce the notion of LGBT issues to their readers. It includes books such as ‘The Sissy Duckling’ and the ‘Two Kings’ as well as ‘One Dad, Two Dads Brown Dads Blue Dads. The books introduce issues in a very subtle and sensitive way.

Many gay people who have discussed the books say that if they had read these books when they were at school, it would have made a huge difference to their lives. Elizabeth Atkinson, the leader of the No Outsiders project said “what books do not say is as important as what they do.

I’m delighted that Exceeding Expectations is happening. It’s good to know there is something happening in the North West to tackle this important issue. I’m looking forward to working in collaboration with Exceeding Expectations in the future, after all we are all in this together.”

For a full list of books, where to get them, and any other further information please email:

exceedingexpectations@lgf.org.uk

‘Everyone is an insider, there are no outsiders – whatever their beliefs, whatever their colour, gender or sexuality.’

- Archbishop Desmond Tutu, February 2004.