The LGBTQ+ Quality Mark provides a comprehensive approach to promoting wellbeing and inclusion for LGBTQ+ young people in schools and Youthreach centres across Ireland.
Belong To is delighted to launch recruitment for the next phase of our support and accreditation initiative.
The LGBTQ+ Quality Mark focuses on the four key areas of wellbeing promotion from an LGBTQ+ perspective:
- Creating an LGBTQ+ inclusive culture and environment.
- Resourcing an LGBTQ+ inclusive curriculum.
- Nurturing LGBTQ+ inclusive relationships and partnerships.
- Supporting LGBTQ+ inclusive policies and planning.
You are supported to achieve this through:
- Equipping staff to support LGBTQ+ students through online and in-person training.
- Promoting student voice and working with learners to promote LGBTQ+ inclusion in your school or centre.
- Working with parents, community organisations and other local LGBTQ+ youth projects or groups to promote LGBTQ+ inclusion.
Why is the LGBTQ+ Quality Mark needed?
In Ireland, 76% of LGBTQ+ students do not feel safe at school. However, research shows that effective school-based interventions can improve the lives and experiences of LGBTQ+ students.
Since 2022, over 100 schools and Youthreach centres have embarked on the 18-month journey to become a LGBTQ+ Quality Mark accredited school.
This year, we are excited to partner with a limited number of additional post-primary schools and centres nationwide to support them in working towards achieving the LGBTQ+ Quality Mark.
Get Involved
To apply for the 2025-2026 LGBTQ+ Quality Mark, fill out the form by clicking the button below.
To find out more about the LGBTQ+ Quality Mark you can get in touch directly with the Education & Training team at: luke@belongto.org.
You can also scroll to the bottom of this page to register for our upcoming info sessions.
LGBTQ+ Quality Mark Accredited Schools and Centres
Find the full list of schools and Youthreach centres already accreditied with the LGBTQ+ Quality Mark below:
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The LGBTQ+ Quality Mark has been an invaluable asset to our school community. It has provided us with the tools to assess where we are in relation to becoming a fully LGBTQ+ safe and supportive school. The resources provided are excellent in helping to educate staff and students alike. It has helped us to reach highly effective practice in this area and is a benchmark for excellence.
Niamh Sheridan (she/her) Deputy Principal, St. Joseph’s Secondary School Westmeath
What is involved?
1. Recognise
Recognise and promote existing supports for your LGBTQ+ school and centre community. Together we will identify the key strengths in your existing approach to LGBTQ+ inclusion.
2. Build and grow
Build on these existing supports, and grow through additional inclusive practice and policies. Once the areas for development have been identified, together we can create a bespoke plan with best practice recommendations in line with the Department of Education guidance.
3. Achieve
Celebrate your commitment by attaining the Belong To LGBTQ+ Quality Mark.
Resources and supports
Get Involved
To find out more about the LGBTQ+ Quality Mark you can get in touch directly with the Education & Training team at: luke@belongto.org.
To apply for the 2025-2026 LGBTQ+ Quality Mark, fill out the form by clicking the button below.
Info Sessions
You can also register for one of our upcoming online information webinars using the booking form below. These sessions are 30 minutes long and will take place throughout February and March. Scroll through below for the date that best suits you: