Students training to be Physical Education teachers at the University of Worcester are supporting the national #RainbowLaces movement.
Rainbow Laces is a Stonewall campaign which aims to ensure the message is heard that sport is a game for everyone. The Rainbow Laces themselves were created as a symbol of solidarity with the LGBT community within sport, and many high-profile athletes have been wearing them.
Students on the University’s Secondary PE PGCE course have also been supporting the campaign to further raise the profile that sport and PE is for everyone.
Student Arabella Withers said: “I think it’s important to recognise that everyone is welcome in sport.”
Emily Harris added: “It’s important we are good role models and show that as teachers we are inclusive and open to supporting people from all communities.”
Connor Monaghan added: “There should never be a barrier for anyone to take part in sport.”
David Woodward, Senior Lecturer on the PGCE PE course, said: “As a one of the largest providers for Secondary PE teacher training nationally, we are fully aware of the impact that our trainees will have across a wide range of schools and students in the area and beyond. As a university we are committed to inclusion and equality and run a very successful LGBTQ+ allies scheme for staff. I see the #RainbowLaces an extension of that.”
For more information about rainbow laces, go to https://www.stonewall.org.uk/our-work/campaigns/rainbow-laces-–-come-out-active-lgbt-equality-sport