Lewis School Pengam celebrated its second annual Pride Day during the school’s last week of term.
Held on Thursday, July 19, the event included talks from guests, exhibitions, karaoke and musical performances from past and present pupils.
It was part of the school’s newly developed LGBTQ programme, aimed at promoting the understanding and appreciation of sexual and gender identity.
Among those who spoke during the event were Australian swimmer and Gay Games competitor James Alexander, Assembly Member for Caerphilly Hefin David, and Police and Crime Commissioner for Gwent Jeff Cuthbert.
Former pupil Andrew Powell spoke at the event about his own experience and being bullied. He praised the school for its “broad range of resources and fantastic teachers that pupils can turn to for advice.”
The event was also attended by several youth and LGBTQ support services including Umbrella Cymru, Barod and GAVO.
Hefin David AM said: “This was my second visit to Pengam Pride at Lewis School and the event is going from strength-to-strength. The commitment of the school, teachers and pupils to equality is wonderfully inspiring.”
Cllr Philippa Marsden, Caerphilly County Borough Council’s Cabinet Member for Education and Achievement said: “This is an important annual event that helps students celebrate different gender identity cultures and promote the significance of equal rights.
“The school has a lot of resources available to help children and this is a great event to take a stance against discrimination.”