A Kilmarnock school has been flying the rainbow flag to show support for the LGBT community.
Willowbank School has gained an award which shows it is inclusive to lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender people.
The school has been leading the way by proudly waving the colourful flag for a number of years.
It will stay up until Friday, February 28, which is Purple Friday, a day for standing up against homophobia, biphobia and transphobia.
Willowbank head teacher Tracy Smallwood said: “We fly the rainbow flag which is flown as part of LGBT history month.
“We hoisted it on Friday, January 31, and it will remain in situ until February 28 when we will celebrate Purple Day.
“This has been part of our school curriculum for several years as we have worked towards gaining our LGBT Youth Scotland bronze award.”
The school was the first in East Ayrshire to be awarded the bronze award, presented in 2018.
Some East Ayrshire academies have set up LGBT+ friendships groups and are supporting inclusion through the display of posters.
Labour and Co-operative party councillor Barry Douglas welcomed the rainbow flag’s appearance at Willowbank. The Kilmarnock East and Hurlford councillor said: “I am proud of Willowbank’s decision to fly the pride flag once again in support of LGBT history month.
“The rainbow flag represents equality and individuality in addition to its role as a symbol of LGBT support.”
Cllr Douglas added: “It is great to see the flag flying as a beacon of tolerance in our community.”
The LGBT Charter programme helps organisations or schools to proactively promote inclusion in every aspect of work.
More than 80 pupils with additional support needs attend Willowbank from the age of five to 18.
