Bolton College has unfurled a “Rainbow Flag Award” reflecting the work being done to promote LGBT+ rights.
The award is recognised across the country and is given to schools and colleges that are dedicated to creating an inclusive and visible environment for LGBT+ students.
Bolton College is now one of the few colleges of its kind in the country to receive the award, which has been marked with a rainbow flag memorial that has now been unveiled.
Head of foundation learning Tom Martin said: "We have always been a very inclusive college, and the Rainbow Flag Award is a testament to this.
“To officially meet the benchmarks for the award, we had to make a few positive changes to our policies, training, and curriculum.
“However, these were actions our staff were already undertaking, so the flag formalises what we were doing already.
“For many students, Bolton College is not just a place of study but a safe haven where they can authentically be themselves and we will continue to ensure that every learner that studies here feels a sense of belonging.”
The display was created and donated by the Dulux Academy who worked with Bolton College’s painting and decorating department.
The students then painted the mural onto the college atrium as part of a training session.
Dulux Academy skills development consultant Mark Rigby said: “The Dulux Academy is proud to contribute to the creation of the college’s Rainbow Flag Award mural.
“We believe in the power of education to drive positive change, and it's heartening to see the college's dedication to inclusivity.”
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The mural was unveiled at a ceremony attended by staff, students, governors and stakeholders, who enjoyed rainbow flag cupcakes, biscuits and fruit kebabs.
Principal Bill Webster said: “We are thrilled to receive the award, a recognition of our collective efforts in creating an environment that celebrates diversity.
“I would like to thank all the staff at Bolton College; this award exemplifies the excellent inclusion work everyone completes across the College, for both our learners and our colleagues.
“I’d also like to extend our sincere thanks to the Dulux Academy for their eye-catching mural.”
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