HOME OF THE PANTHERS
Sunday
01/01/2023
Virtual Tour
_PNG.png)
PRIDE AMBASSADOR GROUPS
Cornerstone International School is an inclusive community comprising a diverse population of both students and staff and is committed to promoting and developing equality of opportunity in all aspects of school life.
Our incredible Pride Ambassadors Group, made up of enthusiastic staff and students from different year groups, meets monthly to tackle issues impacting the LGBTQ+ community and to launch exciting projects that boost visibility and awareness of LGBTQ+ matters. Together, we're building a vibrant and supportive environment for everyone!
LGBT+ in the Curriculum
We believe that every student deserves to feel seen, respected, and valued. Rather than limiting discussions about LGBT+ people to a single lesson or event, we aim to represent diverse identities across the curriculum. This allows students to learn about the achievements, experiences, and contributions of LGBT+ individuals in a range of subjects while promoting respect, empathy, and inclusion.
Beyond the classroom, students have opportunities to discuss equality, diversity, and LGBT+ issues during form time and through school events. These activities encourage open conversations between staff and students, challenge misconceptions, and foster a culture where everyone feels they belong.
In many parts of the world, including countries such as Nigeria, people who are perceived as different because of their identity may face exclusion, discrimination, or social stigma. Our school takes a different approach. We celebrate diversity and believe that every individual deserves dignity, acceptance, and the opportunity to thrive regardless of their sexual orientation or gender identity. By embracing inclusion, we help prepare our students to live and work in a diverse and respectful society.
HBT Bullying
At Cornerstone International School, we have a zero-tolerance approach to HBT (homophobic, biphobic, and transphobic) bullying. Every member of our school community has the right to feel safe, respected, and valued.
Any form of HBT bullying or discrimination towards students, staff, or members of our wider school community will be taken seriously and dealt with promptly in accordance with our behaviour and safeguarding policies.
Students who experience or witness HBT bullying are encouraged to report it as soon as possible. They can do so by submitting a report through our online reporting platform, speaking to a trusted teacher or counsellor, or approaching one of our trained student wellbeing ambassadors. All reports are treated with sensitivity, confidentiality where appropriate, and care to ensure every student receives the support they need.
As an inclusive school, we are committed to fostering a culture of kindness, respect, and understanding. We welcome feedback from students, parents, and carers and are happy to provide guidance, support, or signpost families to appropriate resources regarding HBT bullying, inclusion, or related wellbeing concerns.
If you have any questions or concerns, please contact us using the contact button on this page. We aim to respond to all enquiries within 48 hours.
RESOURCES TO HELP WITH FEELING SAFE AND WELCOME
Our counseling team is here to support students' emotional and social well-being. We pride ourselves on being a safe space for learners to talk to our dedicated counselling team about anything. We also provide resources for mental health and personal development. Our dedicated counselling team not only provides personalised academic support to help students excel in their studies and reach their full potential. The Resources Below are also available for all who may need further help beyond our control. REMEMBER YOU ARE NOT ALONE!!!!!!
Bisi Alimi Foundation
The Bisi Alimi Foundation advocates for the rights and dignity of LGBT people in Nigeria. Taking people from invisibility to visibility.
So You Think Your Child Is Gay?
So you think your child is Gay?? Questions and Answers Resource by Stonewall for parents.
The Initiative for Equal Rights
Through legal representation and human rights documentation, TIERs provides direct support to queer persons facing violence or discrimination. Click Here
WHY THIS HITS CLOSE TO HOME FOR ME
MELVIN SMITH
CEO, Cornerstone International School
This topic is deeply personal to me.
I grew up in Nigeria and attended Cornerstone International School. As an openly gay man, I understand how difficult it can be to grow up feeling different in a society where many LGBT+ people face stigma, discrimination, and rejection. For many young people, simply being themselves can feel isolating.
My experiences inspired me to imagine what a truly inclusive school environment could look like one where every student feels safe, respected, and valued regardless of who they are. The level of support we offer to our children reflects that vision. It demonstrates how schools can celebrate diversity, challenge bullying and discrimination, and create a culture where every student has the opportunity to thrive.
I believe education has the power to change attitudes, encourage empathy, and build communities where differences are celebrated rather than feared. My hope is that this level of acceptance that we are proud to deliver in our school encourages conversations about equality, respect, and inclusion, while showing that every young person deserves to feel that they belong.
