“Personal, insightful and passionate about diversity and LGBT issues, John helped me to gain a deeper understanding into the purpose and relevance of celebrations within school. As a result I was able to join the children with all they had learned during their primary schooling and was amazed by the level of maturity, appropriateness of language used and the empathy that they could demonstrate.”
Adam Roberson, Year 6 Teacher
“I hadn’t realised the knock-on effects of doing this work would be so far-reaching. Not only has it encouraged the children to be themselves, it has also enabled me to have the confidence to come out knowing I would be fully supported. I wholeheartedly believe that if this inspiring work had not taken place within our school, coming out would have been a lot more difficult. It’s knowing that your whole school works collaboratively on promoting diversity that truly makes a difference! Now I can be myself and not hide an important part of my life, namely my sexuality. As much as other staff talk about their partners and what they got up to at the weekend, so I can talk about what Elaine and I have done. This work has truly changed lives. Mine included!”
Wendy Tamasa, Higher Level Teaching Assistant
A very thought-provoking lecture. John is a wonderful speaker, a great advocate. His school and life experiences and the presented research data made me realise how much more work we have to do to be able to claim we are an inclusive school, society, world… I’m thoroughly grateful for this learning opportunity.”
PGCE Student, University of East London
“An amazing session, one of, if not THE best lecture this year. An inspirational man.”
PGCE Student, University of East London
“After hearing homophobic comments in the classroom, I challenged it but was not as confident as I could have been because I was a trainee teacher. I will definitely take the advice away and feedback to my NQT school when I commence third placement. The books and posters were excellent starting points. Thank you for sharing your story; it was enlightening.”
PGCE Student, University of East London
“Very well presented and informative lecture with practical activities and strategies that can be applied in schools. Very useful and inspiring.”
PGCE Student, University of East London