Non-Normative Gender and Sexual Identities in Schools: - Schools Out

As we moved through the sixties and seventies this discrimination became more implicit,
delivered largely through the curriculum, with subjects being heavily gendered. The
1980’s saw a return to explicit discrimination with the Conservative’s anti-gay rhetoric
and the introduction of Section 28 of The Local Government Act 1988 (Appendix 9).
Section 28 stated that local authorities should not ‘intentionally promote homosexuality
or publish material with the intention of promoting homosexuality’ (Local Government
Act, 1988: s28(1) 2A. (1) (a)), nor should they, ‘promote the teaching in any maintained
school of the acceptability of homosexuality as a pretend family relationship’ (s28 2A.
(1) (b)) 4 . These historical developments have influenced present education cultures and
policies thus contextualise the current situation. They also reflect wider social and
cultural shifts throughout the twentieth century, demonstrating how schools are a
microcosm of society. Although it is through the family, community and the media,
amongst other influences, that young people may start to learn about gender and
sexuality, it is at school where these ideas are harnessed and developed (Forrest, 2006).
As such, schools are a central socialisation site, contributing to shaping identities.
The most significant event for LGBT people in education has undoubtedly been the
introduction of Section 28 and the dialogue this ensued. Section 28 served to alienate and
stigmatise LGBT people, particularly in education. However, it also served to partially
unite an increasingly fractured LGBT community. As such since the mid 1980’s, as well
as much public debate around LGBT issues in education, there has been increasing
concern in academic research relating to sexuality and education, for example; Harris
(1990); Mac an Ghaill (1994a); Epstein and Johnson (1998); Rasmussen (2006); Rofes
4 For an overview of the situation in schools in the years leading up to the introduction of Section 28 see
Gay Teachers Group (1987).