The wisdom of Mr Ajayi

 

Episode 1, run time 09.15

Mr Ajayi's art classroom provides a place of safety from bullying, for Charlie, and his guidance on navigating life as a gay teen is sought after. 

The gay teacher is a great listener, but doesn't pretend he can resolve all of Charlie's dilemmas and is assertive with Charlie where necessary.

Mr Ajayi doesn't have many scenes in Heartstopper, but I love the way his part is written. Role model behaviours are demonstrated, but the obvious trap of making the interactions excessively saccharine is avoided.  

This sequence is the first of many that hint at Charlie's eating disorder, but it's all very subtle through series 1.