Equality Statement

Lowerplace Primary is an inclusive school where all are welcome. We celebrate diversity and champion equality. Everybody who enters our school is expected to behave in a way, which respects the protected characteristics of the Equality Act 2010.

Public bodies, including schools, are covered by the public sector equality duty in the Equality Act 2010 and the Equality Act 2010 (Specific Duties) Regulations 2011.

At Lowerplace Primary School, we take this obligation very seriously and ensure that all our pupils can take part as fully as possible in every aspect of school life. We identify any barriers to learning that they may have and then work to overcome these so that each child can fulfil their potential.

The school’s general duties, with regards to equality 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,
• Age,
• Race,
• Disability
• Religion or belief.
• Sexual orientation.
• Gender reassignment.
• Pregnancy or maternity.

Lowerplace Primary School 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.

Aims to eradicate discrimination

Lowerplace Primary School 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:

• Being respectful.
• Always treating all members of the school community fairly.
• Developing an understanding of diversity and the benefits it can have.
• Adopting an inclusive attitude.
• Adopting an inclusive curriculum that is accessible to all.
• Encouraging compassion and open-mindedness.

Equality in Teaching and learning

We are committed to having a balanced and fair curriculum. We believe that our pupils should be exposed to ideas and concepts that may challenge their understanding to help ensure that pupils learn to become more accepting and inclusive of others. Challenging and controversial concepts will be delivered in a way that prevents discrimination, and instead promotes inclusive attitudes. We will also respect the right of parents to withdraw their children from classes which pose conflicts to their own beliefs.

We provide all our pupils with the opportunity to succeed and to reach the highest level of personal achievement. We do this by:

• Ensuring equality of access for all pupils and preparing them for life in a diverse society
• Using materials that reflect the diversity of the school, population and local community without stereotyping
• Promoting attitudes and values that challenge any discriminatory behaviour or prejudice
• Providing opportunities for pupils to appreciate their own culture and celebrate the diversity of other cultures
• Seeking to involve all parents in supporting their child’s education
• Utilising teaching approaches appropriate for the whole school population which are inclusive and reflective of our pupils.

Equality in Admissions and Exclusions

Our admissions arrangements are fair and transparent and do not discriminate on the grounds of race, gender, religion, belief, disability and/or socio-economic background.

Equal Opportunities for Staff

All staff appointments and promotions are made on the basis of merit and ability and in compliance with the law. We are keen to ensure that the staffing of the school reflects the diversity of our community.

The school has a full and separate Equality, Diversity and Community Policy.  Please consult this for further details if you wish.

Dealing with prejudice

Lowerplace Primary School does not tolerate any form of prejudice-related incident. Whether direct or indirect, we treat discrimination against all members of our school with the utmost severity. When an incident is reported, through a thorough reporting procedure, our school is devoted to ensuring appropriate action is taken and a resolution is put into place which is both fair and firm.

At Lowerplace Primary School, our pupils are taught to be:

• Understanding of others.
• Celebratory of cultural diversity.
• Eager to reach their full potential.
• Aware of what constitutes discriminatory behaviour.

The school’s employees will not:

• Discriminate against any member of the school.
• Treat other members of the school unfairly.

The school’s employees will:

• Promote diversity equality.
• Encourage and adopt an inclusive attitude.
• Lead by example.

Summary

Prejudice is not tolerated at Lowerplace Primary School and we are continuously working towards a more accepting and respectful environment for our school’s community.