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PUPILS at an Inverness school celebrated the end of LGBT history month with a splash of colour.

Inverness Royal Academy pupils enjoyed a dress down day for Purple Friday, which allowed them to take a stand against homophobia and show support for LGBT equality.

A rainbow flag flew on the roof of the school for the whole of February and many subjects across the school incorporated LGBT and human rights into lessons.

Morven Neil, principal teacher of geography and LGBT group leader, said: “It was great to see our young people participating and supporting each other, encapsulating our school values of respect and compassion.

“It allowed us to show support for our LGBT young people and to spread the message that homophobia in all forms is not welcome in our school community.”

Rector Robin Fyfe said: “I was delighted to see the support and hard work demonstrated by staff and pupils to celebrate diversity, equality and individual rights. It was particularly pleasing to hear about the pupils’ excellent presentation about this to councillors the day before at Highland Council headquarters.”

S2 pupil Roíse Ní Eadhra said: “I feel like for me and other members of the LGBTQ+ community, it is important to have a safe space to talk about experiences and questions that some might not be able to ask at home.

“Since I have come to this school I felt more confident being my authentic self and made more friends through a Rights Respecting club. I am very grateful to have such an accepting school.”

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