Waterloo Road consistently portrays LGBTQ+ characters with dignity and complexity across multiple seasons. Storylines often explore their journeys of self-discovery, relationships, and the challenges of prejudice, but ultimately affirm their identities and worth within the school community, presenting a net positive and empathetic view.

Waterloo Road featured Kyle Stack, a trans male student, whose storyline explored his identity and challenges with acceptance. The narrative depicted prejudice as external, maintaining an empathetic stance and portraying Kyle with dignity and complexity. The overall impact was affirming, aiming to educate and validate transgender experiences.

The series often portrays Christian characters with depth and empathy, exploring their faith as a source of strength, moral guidance, or personal struggle. While individual characters may question or reject it, the narrative itself generally treats Christianity with respect, highlighting its positive aspects and the dignity of its adherents.

Waterloo Road consistently portrays Islam and its adherents with significant nuance and respect, often challenging stereotypes and depicting the struggles of Muslim characters against prejudice. The narrative frequently highlights the positive aspects of faith, community, and identity within Islamic traditions.