School Pride gala
The gala is the brainchild of Rae Toon, who teaches media at Quarrydale Academy in Sutton and runs a support group there for LGBTQ+ youngsters.
"It will be all about celebrating diversity,” explained Rae. “We want to raise awareness that there are these students in schools. This is a minority group that does exist.
"School Pride will make them feel more confident and more accepted, so that they can be themselves.
"Schools have been holding their own individual Pride events for the last three years, making flags, singing gay anthems and celebrating their LGBTQ+ communities.
"But my idea is to bring them all together at the same venue. Last year, it was meant to happen at Mansfield Town’s ground but had to be cancelled because of lockdown. I was gutted.
"This time, the event will go ahead, subject to Covid restrictions, and I am really looking forward to it.”
As well as Quarrydale, the Mansfield secondary schools of Meden, Brunts Academy and Samworth, plus Selston High School, have committed to take part.
Visit the Quarrydale Ambassador page here
Quarrydale Academy, a charitable company limited by guarantee, registered in England and Wales , Company number 07891230.
Registered Office: Stoneyford Road, Sutton-In-Ashfield, Nottinghamshire, NG17 2DU