Irvine Royal Academy receives national inclusivity recognition

Irvine Royal Academy has become the latest secondary school in Scotland, and first

in North Ayrshire, to have achieved the prestigious LGBT Youth Scotland Charter of

Education Gold Award.

A national award, the LGBT Youth Scotland accreditation - awarded by Glasgow

based charity, LGBT Youth Scotland - recognises schools that go above and beyond

the basic requirements to support LGBT pupils, staff, parents and carers.

Being accredited enables schools to share a positive message championing the

LGBT community with confidence, where all LGBTQ+ staff, parents and learners can

be safe, supported and included.

As part of the important work, over the past year, Irvine Royal pupils and the

colleagues supporting them have:

 Hosted a weekly Pride Group drop-in for LGBT pupils and allies

 Created their own LGBT inclusion board in the main foyer of the school

 Hosted a Pride Month celebration with film screening of Heartstopper

 Introduced more diverse book titles in the school library

 Ran a drop-in session on LGBT History Month 2025 celebrating queer icons

 Enjoyed a picnic outing and scavenger hunt at McGavin Park in Kilwinning in

partnership with Kilwinning Academy’s Equalities group

 Helped to promote and be involved in weekly wellbeing walking sessions

 Worked closely with the school’s leadership team and pupil voice

ambassadors to develop initiatives to support pupils who may be self-

conscious or finding it difficult to be themselves in school

Young People’s Champion, Councillor Chloé Robertson shares: “I am delighted that

Irvine Royal Academy has received this worthy recognition, and it is encouraging to

learn that many of our other schools from across our six localities are working

towards the next level of their own awards too.

“The pupils are really proud to be part of the impactful action. They are a true

inspiration and exceptional role models for their peers and the wider LGBT

community.”

Councillor Shaun Macaulay, Cabinet Member for Education and Young People,

added: “As a child and youth-centred council, we are committed to doing our very

best for every pupil to build a fairer, more equal North Ayrshire.

“The council understands that many young LGBT people can often experience a

sense of isolation and unfortunately can face many barriers in life, including feeling

discriminated against or being socially disconnected from their peers.

“This is where the LGBT Charter comes in, it is just one of many ways we are

working together with schools to safeguard young people with protected

characteristics so that they can become confident learners and empowered citizens.

“Irvine Royal Academy is a shining example of this important work, congratulations

to them for their Gold accreditation.”

If you want to access LGBT support near you, email: youthwork@north-

ayrshire.gov.uk and stay tuned for more news updates via North Ayrshire Youth