Guidance to help transgender teachers to disclose their status at school has been published by the NEU teaching union.

The guidance ranges from what trans teachers should wear, to their legal protections. 

The “toolkit” for trans workers and their employers was drawn up because too many schools and colleges were unprepared for when a member of staff reveals that they intend to change their gender identity, says the union.

In some instances, trans workers have been asked to manage their transition themselves or have been asked inappropriate questions, the NEU says.

The union is concerned that many teachers do not open up about their trans status or trans history at all, out of a fear of discrimination and prejudice, combined with a sense that employers are ill-equipped to deal with the issue.

The guidance, developed by the NEU’s trans educators’ network, sets out the legal protection for  people who are about to transition, as well as what they are entitled to expect from their employers. 

Support mechanisms for transgender workers 

For example, an employee is entitled to request time off in association with their transition.

A trans worker should also be able to follow the dress code that corresponds with their transitioning  gender identity, be addressed by the pronoun of their choice and access the appropriate facilities.

The guidance stipulates that a Transition Care Plan should be drawn up between an individual and their employer, laying out timescales, activity and communications around who will be told and how - though there is no requirement for an employee to disclose their intention to transition.

Mary Bousted, NEU joint general secretary, said the guidance would help schools and colleges to make sure they have the necessary support mechanisms in place so that trans workers are supported, respected and have a positive transition. 

“Schools and colleges that nurture diversity and create inclusive environments for trans workers are able to recruit and retain happier, healthier staff,” she said.

“They provide crucial role models that reflect the diversity of the UK. Diverse workplaces benefit everybody.”

Figures show that around 1 per cent of the British population are gender non-conforming to some degree, according to the Gender Identity Research and Education Society.