Equality, Diversity & Inclusion
Equality vision statement from North Yorkshire County Council:
"Working towards a society in which there is a common vision and sense of belonging by all communities; a society in which the diversity of people's backgrounds and circumstances is appreciated and valued; a society in which similar life opportunities are available for all; a society in which strong and positive relationships exist and continue to be developed in the workplace, in schools and in the wider community."
This means that in our schools and settings we need to:
- know our communities (social identity factors of age, gender, disability, social class, religion, sexuality, ethnicity);
- find out about about the impact of social identity factors on experiences (analysing the data and asking 'how is it for you?');
- address unequal outcomes by doing things differently and by anticipating need;
- help children and young people to learn to understand others and to value diversity challenge prejudice and misconceptions
Equality
We pride ourselves on being a welcoming and inclusive school. Equality means that everyone is able to participate and feel welcome and safe in the activities of our school. This includes pupils, parents, staff, governors and visitors. Everyone should be able to achieve the best possible outcomes as a result of their participation. We believe that equality should permeate all aspects of school life and is the responsibility of all members of the school and community.
Diversity
Diversity means acknowledging that there are differences between people that should be recognised, respected and celebrated. We promote respect of each other’s differences and identities. We celebrate and raise awareness of diversity in the school and in the wider community and believe that teaching children about diversity prepares them for life in modern Britain.
Inclusion
It is essential to provide a well balanced, challenging curriculum for all pupils. Inclusion looks at the needs of all pupils.
Our aim is to provide all children with the best possible outcomes in preparation for life-long learning. It is important that children acquire skills, knowledge and confidence that can be applied to all future learning experiences, including social, physical and spiritual development. We endeavour to raise aspirations and expectations for all pupils by working in partnership with parents/carers and listening to our pupils. Pupils can access a daily drop-in with our Pastoral Support Officer to ensure that their voices are heard and their thoughts considered.
Protected Characteristics
The use of Picture News allows us to make pertinent links to protected characteristics. We value opportunities to explore these through current affairs and literature.
As a Church of England School, we refer to the document Valuing All Gods Children to guide policy and ensure all children are safe and given the opportunity to flourish
What we do:
- We have active pupil voice groups
- Sports leaders in upper key stage two run activities for outdoors and ensure all children have access
- Friendship benches provide a place for pupils to go if they need a friend - ensuring no-one is left out or feels alone
- Children are involved with local community events - The local Flower Show, Church events, 10K
- Charity events and fundraising – as a church school we support a local, national and global charities
- Visits to and visitors from other cultures and backgrounds to work with the children
- Children take part in supporting members of the local community: Preparing for and taking part in Remembrance celebrations, sharing acts of kindness, taking part in local community events
- Children have opportunity to learn about being effective citizens including through daily worship and workshops provided by other professionals such as the local police and other professionals
- Deliberate purchasing of books for classes and the library that reflect the entire school community and that celebrate diversity through the curriculum
- Diversity, identity and heritage are identified curriculum ribbons