Whether you’re trans, non-binary, cis, intersex or figuring things out, our school is a safe place for all!

In light of the recent Supreme Court ruling on the definition of ‘woman’ we wanted to reach out to say that we stand with our trans and non-binary students, staff, and community members. At Bristol Old Vic Theatre School we believe that everyone deserves to feel safe, seen, and supported, not just as practitioners in training, but as whole people.

We also recognise that this isn’t just about policies or laws, it’s about the wider cultural impact. Rulings like this can risk creating a climate where trans and non-binary people feel less safe, less welcome, or more vulnerable to challenge or exclusion. It can give unspoken permission for hostility, even where none is justified. That’s why we’re clear that at BOVTS everyone deserves to feel safe and supported –  walking into a room, stepping into a rehearsal, using our toilets, or sharing a changing space. It’s about belonging, something we take seriously for everyone here. 

Whether you’re trans, non-binary, cis, intersex or figuring things out, our commitment is to ensure everyone feels comfortable, respected, and part of this community.

Following the ruling and the new EHRC (Equality and Human Rights Commission) interim guidance, we want to reassure everyone:

• This ruling does not change the law. What it does is confirm that, in some specific circumstances, it can be lawful for organisations to exclude trans people from single-sex spaces, but only if they can show it’s a proportionate and justified decision. It does not require any organisation to make such exclusions, nor does it override existing inclusive policies like ours. It remains up to each organisation to decide what’s right in their context, as long as their approach is lawful and fair.
  

• Therefore, our school policies remain the same.

• Our practice continues to be that everyone uses the facilities – including toilets and changing rooms  –  that feel right and safe for them. 

• Our facilities are here to be used with mutual respect, privacy, and trust –  it is not for anyone to dictate who belongs where.

We are here to support all our students and staff. We continue to focus on creating spaces where everyone feels safe, comfortable, and respected, without fear of exclusion or challenge.

Ultimately, our approach is based on listening and learning together, and everyone’s voice matters in shaping our School’s community.

Additionally, alongside other local businesses and charities, we’ll be signing up to Safe Space Bristol https://www.instagram.com/safespacebristol/