Parkfield school suspends No Outsiders lessons after anti-LGBT protests

Parkfield primary school in Birmingham has suspended an inclusive diversity programme in an apparent U-turn after weeks of anti-LGBT protests.

The school has faced protests from Muslims and evangelical Christians who are opposed to lessons that teach children about LGBT+ people.

A number of parents reportedly pulled their children out of school over the issue, demanding the school scrap the No Outsiders programme run by gay assistant headteacher Andrew Moffat.

Parkfield school drops LGBT+ lessons ‘until a resolution is reached’

In a statement on Wednesday (March 13), the school confirmed it had suspended the programme until further notice, in an apparent U-turn on a previous decision.

The school said: “Nothing is more important than ensuring our children’s education continues uninterrupted.

“Yesterday, both parents and the trust held constructive discussions with the Regional Schools Commissioner, and as a result of these discussions we are eager to continue to work together with parents, over the coming days and weeks to find a solution that will support the children in our school to continue their education in a harmonious environment.

“Until a resolution has been reached, No Outsiders lessons will not be taught at Parkfield and we hope that children will not be removed from school to take part in protests.”

Andrew Moffat teaches LGBT-inclusive lessons at Parkfield Community School. (Varkey Foundation/YouTube)

Just days beforehand, the school strongly denied reports that it would suspend the programme.

Hazel Pulley, head of the school’s academy trust, had told the Birmingham Mail on March 5 the lessons would continue “after Easter, as planned.”

She added: “The lessons are there for after Easter. Equalities education will continue.”

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