Equality Statement, Policy, and Objectives
Our school aims to promote respect for difference and diversity in accordance with our values; honesty, respect, care and commitment. Equality of opportunity is at the heart of our values as a school. We are against all forms of discrimination – whether that be on grounds of race, religion, gender, ethnicity, sexual orientation, disability or age. We oppose all forms of intolerance towards any group, however manifested. We have zero tolerance of any form of discrimination or prejudice.
The Equality Act
At Chapelfield Primary School, we welcome our duties under the Equality Act 2010. These duties are:
• Eliminating discrimination
• Fostering good relationships
• Advancing equality of opportunity
We will not discriminate against, harass or victimise any pupil, prospective pupil, or other member of the school community because of their:
• Gender
• Race
• Disability
• Religion or belief
• Sexual orientation
• Gender reassignment
• Pregnancy or maternity
As set out in the DfE guidance on the Equality Act, the school aims to advance equality of opportunity by:
- Removing or minimising disadvantages suffered by people that are connected to a particular characteristic they have (e.g. pupils with disabilities, or gay pupils who are being subjected to homophobic bullying)
- Taking steps to meet the particular needs of people who have a particular characteristic
- Encouraging people who have a particular characteristic to participate fully in any activities (e.g. encouraging all pupils to be involved in the full range of school enrichments, clubs and trips)
- Ensuring representation within the curriculum and in school resources
Equality Objectives
Chapelfield aims to promote pupils’ spiritual, moral, social, and cultural development, with special emphasis on promoting equality, diversity and eradicating prejudicial incidents for pupils and staff. Our school is committed to not only eliminating discrimination but also increasing understanding and appreciation for diversity.
Chapelfield believes that a greater level of success from pupils and staff can be achieved by realising the uniqueness of individuals. Creating a prejudice-free environment where individuals feel confident and at ease is a commitment of the school. This environment will be achieved by:
- Using a Values based Education approach in all aspects of school life which underpins our school ethos with respect and care for others
- Always treating all members of the school community fairly and without prejudice
- Diversifying our resources to ensure a breadth of representation across the curriculum.
- Developing an understanding of diversity and the benefits it can have
- Delivering an inclusive curriculum that is accessible to all providing bespoke adaptations as necessary.
- Encouraging compassion and open-mindedness
- Working with external providers to ensure our approach is forward thinking and research based, to allow key leaders to disseminate carefully crafted training for all staff.
- Upskilling staff to be alert to prejudice and discrimination, the effects that this can have and how they can challenge and support.
- Our school staff recognise that this is an ever-changing constant process, needing continuing reflection, research and consultation.
Objective 1
To embed further all British Values to increase pupil understanding and how they are applied. (Democracy, the rule of law, individual liberty, mutual respect, tolerance of those of different faiths and beliefs).
Objective 2
To further challenge stereotypes and ensure resources and teaching strategies reflect and value the diversity of pupil's experiences.
Objective 3
To review representation across the reading spine and ensure the resources and representative of the diversity of the world we live in.
Objective 4
Refresh training of all members of staff and governors in the Equality Act, ensuring prejudice is recognised and stereotypes are challenged.