Schools are required to publish information which is updated annually showing how they comply with the Equality Duty and to set at least one equality objective every four years. The duty requires schools to show due regard to the need to:
- Eliminate discrimination, harassment, victimisation and other conduct that is prohibited under the Equality Act 2010.
- Advance equality of opportunity between persons who share a protected characteristic and persons who do not share it.
- Foster good relations between persons who share a protected characteristic and persons who do not share it.
All members of our school community are responsible for promoting the school’s Equality Policy and are obliged to respect and act in accordance with the policy.
As a Federation with Ridgeway Infant School, our approach to equality is based on the following 7 key principles:
1. 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.
2. 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, teach and visit here.
3. We foster positive attitudes and relationships. We actively promote positive attitudes and mutual respect between groups and communities different from each other.
4. We foster a shared sense of cohesion and belonging. We want all members of our school community to feel a sense of belonging within the school and wider community and to feel that they are respected and able to participate fully in school life.
5. We observe good equalities practice in 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
6. We have the highest expectations of all our children. We expect that all pupils can make good progress and achieve to their highest potential
7. We work to raise standards for all pupils, but especially for the most vulnerable. We believe that improving the quality of education for the most vulnerable groups of pupils raises standards across the whole school.
Gayton Junior School’s Equality Objectives 2020-2023
Objective 1
To develop the whole school curriculum to include further opportunities for learning about, and raising awareness of, the protected characteristics.
How will we do this?
- Whole school curriculum review by year groups and subject leaders, ensuring content is relevant to our children.
- Refresher training for all staff around the themes of equality and diversity.
- Consultation with stakeholders in regard to the development of an updated Relationships Education and PSHE policy and scheme of work in line with DfE guidance.
Objective 2
To increase the number of disadvantaged pupils who achieve at the expected standard of better in Reading, Writing and Maths combined at the end of Key Stage 2.
How will we do this?
- Targeted intervention, regularly reviewed for impact, for Year 6 disadvantaged pupils.
- After-school provision targeted at disadvantaged pupils to ensure they have the opportunity to access Mathletics and Reading Eggs if they are not always able to from home.
- Identification of pupils in Years 3, 4 and 5 who require early intervention to support their progress during their time at the school.
- Progress and attainment of these pupils to be discussed at termly Pupil Progress Meetings with head and deputy headteacher.
Objective 3
To reduce the exclusion rate of pupils with SEND.
How will we do this?
- Whole school training on sensory processing needs and how to support children with these needs in the classroom.
- Engagement with behaviour support from Newton’s Walk.
- Explore alternative approaches to develop positive behaviours for individual children, identified by the school.
- Individual plans are in place for children at risk of exclusion.
- Engagement with parents and carers.
- Review of Exclusion, Accessibility, SEND, Anti-Bullying and Behaviour policies.
Click here to view the Blagreaves Federation’s Equality Policy (Summer 2022)
Click here to read the 2022 review of our progress towards our current objectives
Click here to read the 2020 review of our previous objectives (2016-19)
