Students stand up against homophobia

Wesley Middle School students are standing up against homophobia and speaking out about mental health in sport through their IB Primary Years Program exhibition projects.

Evie, Eliza, Megan and William (Year 6) created a podcast about the pressures on elite athletes and how it affects their mental health.

Jack, Will and Charlie (Year 6) tackled homophobia in sport, urging others to stop and think before speaking. ‘Think: Is this appropriate? Will it hurt someone? If so, don’t say it!’

They are now preparing to email the AFL and Junior leagues, urging them to begin education about the impact of homophobia on players’ mental health much earlier on.

Their grassroots action caught the attention of former AFL player Mitch Brown, who visited St Kilda Road Campus to speak about inclusivity, respect and ending homophobia in sport.

As Jack, Charlie and Will put it: ‘You can’t tackle homophobia alone, but you can tackle it with a team.’