Equality

Equality of opportunity is a fundamental aspect of the ethos at Arlies Primary School and is set out in its mission:

‘Building Opportunities, Unlocking Talents’.

Equality Act 2010: guidance

Equality Act 2010: advice for schools

School Policy and Objectives

As a school, we welcome our duties under the Equality Act 2010. These general duties are to:
• eliminate discrimination, harassment and victimisation
• advance equality of opportunity
• foster good relations

We understand the principles of the act and the work needed to ensure that those with protected characteristics are not discriminated against and are given equality of opportunity.

A protected characteristic under the act covers the groups listed below:
• age (for employees not for service provision)
• disability
• race
• sex (including issues of transgender)
• gender reassignment
• maternity and pregnancy
• religion and belief
• sexual orientation
• marriage and civil partnership (for employees)

Our Guiding Principles

• We see all learners are of equal value, whether or not they are disabled, whatever their ethnicity, culture, national origin or national status, whatever their gender and gender identity, whatever their religious or non-religious affiliation or faith background and whatever their sexual orientation.
• We recognise, respect and value difference and understand that diversity is a strength. We take account of differences and strive to remove barriers and disadvantages which people may face, in relation to disability, ethnicity, gender, religion, belief or faith and sexual orientation. We believe that diversity is a strength, which should be respected and celebrated by all those who learn in, teach in and visit Arlies Primary School.
• We have the highest expectations of all of our pupils. We expect that all pupils can make good progress and achieve to their highest potential.
• We observe good equalities practice for our staff. We ensure that policies and procedures benefit all employees and potential employees in all aspects of their work, including in recruitment and promotion, and in continuing professional development.
• We foster a shared sense of cohesion and belonging. We want all members of our school community to feel a sense of belonging within our school and to feel that they are welcomed, respected and able to participate fully in school life.
• We are committed to valuing and respecting diversity.
• We foster good attitudes and relationships as part of school and community life.
• We work hard to eliminate the chance of bullying, discrimination, prejudice and victimisation and robustly tackle it should it occur.
• We are committed to advancing and embedding equality of opportunity and meeting the diverse needs of each learner, through a broad and balanced curriculum.
• We raise aspirations and expectations of all learners.
• We engage with the wider community.
• We ensure that learners, families and staff understand roles and responsibilities under the Equality Act 2010.