Sara Jane Perovic speaks with Ilkley Grammar School’s Associate Assistant Headteacher, Kevin Kehoe and discovers how he pioneered the inclusive LGBTQIA+ community at the outstanding school.

SINCE joining Ilkley Grammar School (IGS) in 2016, Mr Kehoe, 43, has introduced anti-homophobic assemblies, developed LGBTQIA+ displays and created a safe space where pupils can express themselves, feel protected against homophobic slurs and explore their own sexuality.

As there is still no official mention of LGBTQIA+ issues within the National Curriculum, Mr Kehoe also leads on Equality, Diversity and Integration at IGS and had previously implemented a campaign at Rossett School, Harrogate called “That’s SO gay”.

He said: “A whole cultural shift needs to happen in schools in terms of equality and gender. Young members of the LGBGTQIA+ community in Ilkley deserve a voice in our school and I am here to help – to offer support and guidance. I launched this scheme at IGS but it’s the kids that have carried it forward. I am so proud and it has been an absolute pleasure and a great privilege.”

He was educated at a Catholic All Boys’ Grammar school in County Derry, Northern Ireland.

Mr Kehoe added: “I knew from a young age I was gay and started to come out in the 6th Form but I wish such a program had existed when I was at school.”

Award-winning artist, Mark Wood, is returning to his hometown after 40 years to open Ilkley Pride on Saturday, July 2.

Mark had a troubled childhood, grew up in care and attended multiple schools including IGS.

Mark said: “What’s happening at IGS is astonishing. I remember homophobic slurs and bullying but thanks to such initiatives the young LGBTQIA+ community can at last feel comfortable in their hometown and not have to move away to big cities to be who they are like I felt forced to do.”

Schools in the region have approached Mr Kehoe to have access to his LGBTQIA+ materials so they can be incorporated within anti-bullying policies.

Unlike Mark, Ilkley Pride organiser, David Shaw MBE, had an enjoyable schooling at Ilkley Grammar and never experienced any bullying or homophobic attitudes in Ilkley.

He said: “What happens in your schooling is immense. You cannot underestimate the teenage years.”

The ex-Royal household employee is passionate about education and learning. He wants to involve young people and to share their experiences.

In 2023, Mr Kehoe will relinquish his other role at IGS as lead for Modern Foreign Languages to launch the RED Awards – Respect; Equality and Diversity – as he continues to lead the way forward for the younger members of the LGBTQIA+ community.

Tickets costing £3 are now on sale for Ilkley’s inaugural Pride and are available at Ilkley Tourist Information/Grove Bookshop or online Eventbrite.