Schools across Ireland are working hard to create inclusive environments for LGBTQI+ students, but there is still a gap between intention and lived experience. While many believe schools are supportive spaces for LGBTQI+ students, feedback gathered through ShoutOut’s workshops shows that only one in four LGBTQI+ students rate their school as very supportive. Students continue to experience biased language, a lack of representation and feeling unsafe. This impacts a young person's wellbeing, attendance and educational experience.
This conference will bring together educators, school leaders, youth workers, researchers and advocates for a day of exploring how to build safer, more inclusive schools for LGBTQI+ young people across Ireland.
A one-day event dedicated to building safer, more inclusive schools for LGBTQI+ young people across Ireland.
ShoutOut have delivered over 2,800 workshops to more than 84,000 students, promoting inclusion and tackling LGBTQI+ bullying in schools. TENI have been working with school principals and staff for 10 years, helping to create safe and supportive learning environments for trans and non-binary students.
The conference will draw on their combined experience to share practical learning with honest conversations about what meaningful inclusion really looks like in schools today.
Inspiring keynote speakers
Panel discussions and real conversations
Young LGBTQI+ voices and lived experiences
Interactive workshops with practical takeaways
Opportunities to connect and collaborate with others passionate about inclusive education
We’re incredibly excited to share that PJ Kirby will be joining us to host our panel discussions, bringing his trademark warmth, humour, energy, and openness to powerful conversations on LGBTQI+ inclusion in education throughout the day.
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Post-primary teachers and educators
School leaders and management
Guidance counsellors and support staff
Pre-service teachers and course leaders
Academics and research allies
Allies working within education
LGBTQI+ and youth organisations
If you have a passion and interest in making educational spaces in Ireland more inclusive for LGBTQI+ people, this space is for you!
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The conference is designed to support collaboration, learning, reflection, and continuous professional development.
Sessions will explore
Developing LGBTQI+ inclusive policies
Practical tools for inclusive teaching and classroom culture
Increasing positive LGBTQI+ visibility across schools and curricula
Responding confidently to discriminatory language and behaviour
Navigating backlash and difficult conversations
Building safer environments where all students feel respected and supported
Learning outcomes include
Evaluating and improving school inclusivity
Demonstrating allyship for LGBTQI+ students and colleagues
Responding confidently to biased language and behaviours
Navigating backlash or complaints with greater confidence and competence
Attendees will leave feeling more informed, more confident, and better equipped to act as trusted adults and advocates for LGBTQI+ students.
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Date: Saturday, 26th September
Time: 09:30 am - 4:00 pm
Location: Dublin 8 (full venue details will be shared closer to the date)
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We’ll be welcoming people from 9:15 AM
Join us this September as we promote inclusion and understanding of LGBTQI+ people through education and work towards an Ireland where every LGBTQI+ person can fully and proudly be themselves.
Supported by:
