Will Every School Get a Gender-Neutral Toilet? Here Are the Current Plans
The discussion around gender-neutral toilets has been ongoing for years, but recently the topic has gotten more attention—now becoming part of a broader conversation about inclusivity and safety, especially in schools. For many young people who are exploring or defining their identities, the current toilet arrangements at school can feel limiting or uncomfortable.
Why Are Gender-Neutral Toilets Being Discussed in Schools?
A growing number of students identify as non-binary, transgender, or gender-fluid. For these students, being forced to choose between “boys” or “girls” toilets can feel unsafe or confusing. Research has shown that some students with non-cisgender identities avoid using school toilets altogether, which can result in health problems and additional stress. For them, a gender-neutral restroom can mean the difference between stress and relief.
What Are the Current Government Guidelines and Plans?
Currently, there is no nationwide requirement in the Netherlands for schools to provide gender-neutral toilets. However, the Ministry of Education, Culture and Science (OCW) considers inclusivity a key focus. There is more emphasis than ever on social safety and equal treatment for students, whatever their gender identity. While it’s not required by law, the ministry does encourage schools to consider solutions—and many schools are taking action on their own initiative.
What Does a Gender-Neutral School Toilet Look Like?
A gender-neutral toilet at school is usually not a large communal space everyone uses at once. Rather, it consists of private stalls with floor-to-ceiling doors for maximum privacy and safety—no urinals, and accessible for everyone regardless of gender. Some schools simply relabel stalls in existing toilets as “gender-neutral,” while others design new facilities that all students can use.
The Benefits of Gender-Neutral Toilets in Schools
- Greater inclusivity and safety for all: Students not comfortable with traditional options have a safe place.
- Reduced bullying and exclusion: Neutral spaces help decrease the chance of bullying or exclusion of trans and non-binary students.
- Better mental wellbeing: Feeling safe and respected in your identity can boost self-confidence and happiness.
- Convenience for guides and parents: Especially in primary schools, gender-neutral toilets are practical for parents or others who need to accompany children.
Concerns from Parents and Staff
Not everyone immediately supports gender-neutral toilets in schools. Some concerns and questions include:
- Fear of less privacy: Some worry that gender-neutral toilets will create situations where boys and girls feel uncomfortable around each other. Good design and layout can solve most of these issues.
- Concerns about traditions and norms: For some, the concept of gender-neutral toilets challenges traditional ideas about gender and upbringing.
- Renovation costs and logistics: Older school buildings aren’t always suited to mixed-use facilities and may require time, money, and planning to retrofit.
- Lack of communication: Sometimes resistance is simply due to staff or parents not having enough information about the changes.
What Do Students Think?
Many young people are positive about the introduction of gender-neutral toilets—especially in secondary schools and vocational education. For a growing segment, it's not a political issue but a practical improvement in school life. Still, not everyone agrees: some students prefer to keep distinct boys’ and girls’ toilets, and group pressure or the unfamiliar can make change feel daunting.
Examples of Schools Leading the Way
Some Dutch schools have already implemented or are testing gender-neutral toilets. For instance, a high school in Amsterdam made one gender-neutral restroom available per floor, while a primary school in Utrecht created a special area with individual cubicles (no urinals) for all students. These schools often see positive reactions: students appreciate the choice, and incidents or complaints are lower than expected. Consistent communication is key for smooth implementation.
What’s Next?
While there is no nationwide obligation yet, there is increasing social pressure to normalize gender-neutral toilets, especially in public institutions like schools. Political parties, advocacy groups, and youth platforms continue to push for inclusivity and diversity in education policy. It is likely that more schools will adopt gender-neutral toilets in the coming years—not from political pressure, but to create a safe and inclusive learning environment for all. Listening to the needs and concerns of all students, parents, and staff will remain essential.
What Can Schools Do Now?
- Survey student needs and wishes: Use anonymous surveys to assess demand and concerns.
- Start small: Pilot with one gender-neutral toilet before bigger changes.
- Talk with parents and staff: Clear communication can reduce resistance and worry.
- Consult with architects and experts: Good design enhances privacy and safety.
Conclusion: Gender-Neutral Toilets Are on the Rise
It’s not yet certain that every Dutch school will soon have a gender-neutral toilet, but the trend is clear: more schools are thinking about it or have already acted. The drive is coming from students who want to feel heard. While some barriers remain, the future seems headed toward more choice and inclusion—visible even in something as simple as a toilet.
Source: https://trendyvandaag.nl/komt-er-op-elke-school-een-genderneutraal-toilet-dit-zijn-de-plannen