Ian Timbrell is the founder of More Than Flags and Rainbows, a not-for-profit organisation that supports schools and charities with LGBTQ+ inclusion. He is an Independent Thinking Associate and has delivered inspiring talks and workshops across the UK that empower educators to tackle homophobic bullying, embrace equity and foster inclusivity. Drawing on his personal journey and 20 years of teaching experience, Ian’s debut title, It’s More Than Flags and Rainbows provides schools with the knowledge and strategies to create meaningful, lasting change for LGBTQ+ inclusion.
Description
A positive and purposeful book with the occasional dollop of humour added throughout. Almost every sentence and paragraph needs highlighting for its ideas, provocation, or information. Ians experience of growing up with homophobic bullying, and finding the courage it takes to come out, brings home the absolute need for every school to address LGBT+ identities as a core part of their approach to diversity, equality, inclusion, and belonging.I wish had been given this book as a core text at the start of teaching. It would have been simultaneously enlightening and affirming of my values and passions within education. Furthermore, the explanations of terminology and the considered reasons for doing or not doing particular actions are very clear.This is a brilliant book! I found it easy to read. A useful way to foster inclusion at any school or organisation that values all children and young people, outside or in.
Juliet Robertson, education consultant and author of Blood Lines, Dirty Teaching and Messy Maths
Its More Than Flags and Rainbows offers practical and actionable insights for education professionals interested in LGBTQ+ diversity and inclusion. It explores key themes with nuance and does not shy away from the more difficult conversations that need to be had in order to create meaningful inclusion beyond flags and rainbows. Ian shares his lived experience as a gay man, his practical knowledge as a former teacher, and his expertise as an LGBTQ+ diversity and inclusion consultant, to create a thought-provoking guide for educators. This book is a great and timely addition to the field of LGBTQ+ inclusive education!
Jo Brassington and Dr Adam Brett, founders and hosts of Pride & Progress
This book will be enormously helpful to those responsible for schools, whether as governor, school leader, or with local authority or MAT responsibilities. The issues around gender and identity are some of the most complex challenges facing schools today. Those issues are dealt with in a clear and measured analysis of every aspect. Ian Timbrell offers a coherent approach with guidelines for decisions and advice on best ways forward, all with sensitivity and always in the best interests of young people.
Mick Waters, educationalist and author