The Centre for Excellence in Leadership (CEL) is undertaking groundbreaking research into the experience of being lesbian, gay or bisexual (LGB) in colleges. With the support of AoC, Natfhe, Unison, NUS, ACM and Stonewall, CEL is inviting all college principals, all learner governors and representatives and LGB college staff to participate in surveys designed to identify how lesbian/gay friendly or otherwise colleges can be, the challenges faced by “out” LGB students and staff, and examples of good and innovative college practice.

Inviting principals, staff and learner representatives to participate in the research, CEL chief executive Lynne Sedgmore said, “It is commonly accepted that 6 per cent of the population is lesbian, gay or bisexual and it is reasonable to suppose that this is reflected in our staff and learner populations. This is, therefore, an issue of relevance to all of us.

“Our research will assist us in identifying and designing supporting activity and materials to help college leaders meet their legal obligations and challenge homophobia wherever it may exist in the sector. We are committed to ensuring that this activity is fully informed by the voices and experiences of LGB staff.”

The Government’s White Paper, “Further Education: Raising Skills, Improving Life Chances”, published at the end of March, made a clear commitment to promoting greater equality and a more diverse workforce.

In support of this, CEL has been tasked with introducing mandatory diversity competence to all programmes, and sexual orientation forms part of its equality and diversity agenda.

All three questionnaires will be available online until 31 July 2006:

* Questionnaire for college principals:

www.centreforexcellence.org.uk/prin

* Questionnaire for learner governors and representatives:

www.centreforexcellence.org.uk/reps

* Questionnaire for LGB college staff:

www.centreforexcellence.org.uk/staff