In a progressive and powerful move, Mercy College in Sligo has made headlines after being honored with the prestigious Belong To LGBTQ+ Quality Mark. Over an 18-month journey, the school has transformed into a symbol of inclusion, safety, and empowerment for LGBTQ+ students in Ireland. This article dives into the story behind the award, the people who made it happen, and the lasting impact on the school and the wider community.
Mercy College Sligo: A Beacon of Inclusivity and Equality
When it comes to inclusive education in Ireland, one school in the northwest is leading the way. Mercy College, Sligo, has recently received the prestigious Belong To LGBTQ+ Quality Mark — an honor that reflects its unwavering commitment to fostering a safe, inclusive environment where every student is seen, heard, and supported.
What is the Belong To LGBTQ+ Quality Mark?
The Belong To LGBTQ+ Quality Mark is an accreditation developed by Belong To – LGBTQ+ Youth Ireland, designed to acknowledge schools that actively promote LGBTQ+ inclusion and wellbeing.
Why Does This Accreditation Matter?
- 76% of LGBTQ+ students in Ireland reported not feeling safe in school (Columbia University, 2022).
- This award recognizes real, impactful change in school environments.
- It supports the development of leadership, community engagement, and empathy among students and staff.
Mercy College Sligo’s 18-Month Journey Toward Inclusion
For 18 months, Mercy College worked tirelessly to create a culture that celebrates diversity and embraces every student, regardless of gender identity or sexual orientation. Their approach was holistic—incorporating staff training, student-led initiatives, inclusive curriculum revisions, and active community partnerships.
Award Ceremony: A Day to Remember
The award was presented at the Royal Marine Hotel, Dun Laoghaire, during a spectacular event attended by over 350 educators and student representatives. Hosted by well-known TV presenter and social media influencer James Kavanagh, the day was filled with laughter, celebration, and stories of change.
Who Stole the Show?
James Kavanagh’s presence as the host added flair and fun to the occasion, inspiring students with his outspoken advocacy for LGBTQ+ rights and mental health awareness.
A Place to Belong: The Spirit of Mercy College
“Mercy College is undoubtedly a ‘place to belong’,” said Linda Dolan, a passionate educator at the school.
This philosophy is now deeply embedded in the school culture — from classrooms to corridors, inclusion is the norm, not the exception.
How LGBTQ+ Students Are Thriving in Sligo
At Mercy College, LGBTQ+ students are not just surviving — they’re thriving. Here’s how:
- Weekly support circles and safe spaces led by trained student leaders.
- Regular community-building activities focused on empathy and respect.
- Integration of LGBTQ+ themes into various subjects, from literature to history.
Understanding the LGBTQ+ Quality Mark Framework
The framework focuses on five key pillars:
| Core Area | Description |
|---|---|
| Inclusive Curriculum | Representation of LGBTQ+ figures and topics in the curriculum. |
| Policy Commitment | Clear anti-bullying and equality statements with actionable outcomes. |
| Community Engagement | Involvement of families and local organizations in the journey. |
| Staff Training | Regular CPD training on inclusive language and allyship. |
| Student Leadership | LGBTQ+ students in leadership roles guiding policy and support systems. |
Sligo Schools Leading the Charge
Mercy College is part of a growing movement. This year, 44 schools across 17 counties earned the Quality Mark, positively impacting over 26,000 students nationwide.
Spotlight on Linda Dolan: A Teacher Making Change
Every movement needs a leader, and for Mercy College, Linda Dolan has been just that.
Her unwavering support and infectious enthusiasm helped drive this transformation.
Student Voices: What They’re Saying About the Change
Students from Mercy College had plenty to say:
“I finally feel safe expressing who I am.”
“This school has helped me understand and support my friends better.”
“We’re learning, growing, and standing up together.”
Powerful stuff, right?
Parent Perspectives: Confidence in a Safer School
Parents have responded with gratitude and relief.
- “Knowing my child is respected means everything.”
- “Mercy College gives me peace of mind.”
Local Community Support for LGBTQ+ Initiatives
From local businesses to Sligo’s community centers, support has poured in.
A few community-led actions include:
- Sponsorship of LGBTQ+ awareness days.
- Mental health workshops open to students and families.
- Rainbow Week celebrations citywide.
Belong To – The Organization Behind the Change
Founded to support LGBTQ+ youth across Ireland, Belong To has become a lifeline for many.
Their motto? “You belong.”
Their mission? To make sure every young person knows it.
School Climate Survey: The Wake-Up Call
Let’s talk numbers.
According to the School Climate Survey by Columbia University:
- 76% of LGBTQ+ youth felt unsafe.
- 68% heard homophobic remarks regularly.
- 58% experienced discrimination from peers.
Mercy College took this seriously — and took action.
Why Visibility in Schools Saves Lives
Yes, you read that right.
Research shows that inclusive schools lower the risk of depression and suicide among LGBTQ+ youth. Mercy College isn’t just offering comfort — it’s offering life-saving support.
From Pilot Program to National Movement
The LGBTQ+ Quality Mark started as a small pilot. Now?
- Over 100 schools are on board.
- Dozens more are joining.
- A cultural shift is happening nationwide.
What Makes a School “Safe” for LGBTQ+ Youth?
Safety isn’t just about locks and cameras.
It’s about:
- Language.
- Representation.
- Advocacy.
- Belonging.
Training Teachers to Be Allies
Mercy College didn’t stop at awareness. They trained their staff to be active allies.
From anti-bullying tactics to trauma-informed care, staff have undergone rigorous professional development.
Celebrating Diversity in Classrooms
Gone are the days of invisibility.
Now, lessons incorporate:
- LGBTQ+ history.
- Gender identity discussions.
- Literature by queer authors.
Breaking the Silence: Tackling Bullying Head-On
Bullying thrives in silence. But not at Mercy College.
Their response?
- Anonymous reporting tools.
- Swift disciplinary action.
- Open-door policies for support.
Youthreach and Alternative Education Get Involved
Not just mainstream schools — Youthreach centers have also joined the movement.
Young people outside traditional school systems deserve support, too.
How Other Schools Can Follow Mercy College’s Lead
Interested in transforming your school?
Here’s a quick checklist:
- Engage with Belong To.
- Conduct a school climate survey.
- Create a support team.
- Launch student groups.
- Celebrate progress.
Sligo’s Role in Ireland’s LGBTQ+ Education Reform
Sligo has emerged as a trailblazer in LGBTQ+ student advocacy.
Could this be the start of a ripple effect? We think so.
FAQs
What is the Belong To LGBTQ+ Quality Mark?
It’s a national accreditation for schools that demonstrate best practices in LGBTQ+ inclusion and student wellbeing.
How long did Mercy College work on this initiative?
The initiative took 18 months, involving strategic planning, staff development, and student engagement.
Who supports the Belong To program?
Belong To – LGBTQ+ Youth Ireland leads the program, with partnerships from various educational stakeholders.
How many schools have received the Quality Mark?
As of the latest update, 44 schools across 17 counties in Ireland have been awarded the mark.
Why is LGBTQ+ visibility important in schools?
It fosters safety, mental wellbeing, respect, and promotes academic success for LGBTQ+ youth.
How can a school apply for the Quality Mark?
Schools can begin by visiting Belong To’s official website and following the outlined steps to join the program.
Conclusion: A Safe Place, A Stronger Future
Mercy College in Sligo has set a new benchmark for educational inclusivity in Ireland. Their work reminds us that with empathy, action, and courage, schools can be life-changing — and even life-saving — environments. “You belong here” isn’t just a message; it’s a mission Mercy College has made real.
