Church of England publishes guidance on transphobic bullying for teachers

The Church of England has published guidance for teachers aimed at preventing pupils from “having their self-worth diminished or their ability to achieve impeded by being bullied because of their perceived or actual sexual orientation or gender identity”.

The report makes 12 recommendations for schools including ensuring schools' Christian ethos statements offer "an inclusive vision for education" where "every child should be revered and respected as members of a community where all are known and loved by God. “

Clear anti-bullying policies should include HBT behaviours and language, policies on how to report incidences should be accessible, and staff trained in recognising bullying.

The advice is an update on Valuing All God's Children, guidance published in 2014 which tackled homophobic behaviour. This update covers a wider range of negative behaviours, incorporates the relevant legal and inspection frameworks and reflects the Church's Vision for Education, whose four elements of wisdom, hope, community and dignity form the theological basis of the guidance.

Commending the report, the Archbishop of Canterbury, Justin Welby, said: "All bullying, including homophobic, biphobic and transphobic bullying causes profound damage, leading to higher levels of mental health disorders, self-harm, depression and suicide.

"Central to Christian theology is the truth that every single one of us is made in the image of God. Every one of us is loved unconditionally by God.

"This guidance helps schools to offer the Christian message of love, joy and celebration of our humanity without exception or exclusion."