North Monastery Co-educational Secondary School Awarded Second Belong To QMark
North Monastery Co-educational Secondary School is proud to announce that it has been awarded its second Belong To QMark in recognition of its ongoing commitment to fostering an inclusive and supportive school community.
The school first achieved the Belong To QMark in February 2024. As part of its continued dedication to promoting allyship and ensuring a welcoming and secure environment for LGBTQ+ students, staff and the wider school community, North Monastery Co-educational Secondary School has now successfully renewed the award for the period 2026–2028.
Representatives from the school’s staff and student body will attend the 2026 Belong To QMark Awards ceremony in Dún Laoghaire next month, where schools from across Ireland will be recognised for their work in advancing LGBTQ+ inclusion.
What is the Belong To QMark?
The Belong To QMark is a national quality standard awarded to schools that demonstrate strong leadership and action in creating safe, supportive and fully inclusive environments for LGBTQ+ young people. Schools undertake a comprehensive review process, which includes evaluating policies, practices and school culture, engaging with students and staff, and implementing initiatives that promote visibility, understanding and allyship.
About Belong To
Belong To LGBTQ+ Youth Ireland is the national organisation supporting LGBTQ+ young people in Ireland. Through youth services, training, advocacy and educational programmes such as Stand Up Awareness Week, Belong To works to ensure that LGBTQ+ young people are safe, equal and valued in their communities.
The North Mon Allyship Team, made up of both students and staff, would like to sincerely thank everyone who contributed to the renewal process. This included attending meetings, participating in the school’s allyship club, completing surveys, engaging with local community groups, contributing to policy development and taking part in the Stand Up Awareness programme. Their engagement and commitment have played a vital role in securing this achievement.
We would also like to thank everyone working at Belong To for their continued support and guidance.
North Monastery Co-educational Secondary School remains committed to continuing its journey towards equality, inclusion and respect for all members of its school community.