The Equality Act 2010 provides a legal framework to protect the rights of individuals and advance equality of opportunity for all. It provides Britain with a discrimination law which protects individuals from unfair treatment and promotes a fair and more equal society. The Equality Act covers 9 protected characteristics: 

• Age 

• Disability 

• Gender reassignment 

• Marriage and civil partnership 

• pregnancy and maternity 

• race 

• religion or belief 

• sex 

• sexual orientation 

‘Equality, diversity and inclusion are critical components of a healthy school culture. A focus on EDI creates a welcoming, supportive environment where every student and staff member can thrive….Equality means that everyone is treated fairly and has the same opportunities, regardless of their differences. Diversity is about recognising and celebrating differences, including race, gender, religion, disability, and sexual orientation. Inclusion means creating an environment where every individual feels valued and respected, and where everyone has a sense of belonging.’ (The Importance of EDI in schools and multi-academy trusts) 

Reviewing DEI in schools, some questions to ask: 

• Does the school have a DEI policy statement? A DEI strategy? 

• Does policy and practice in DEI ensure people with protected characteristics and intersectionality aspire to and achieve the level of success they desire? 

• Do senior leaders and governors understand the benefits of DEI for staff and pupils? 

• Is the school an inclusive employer? How diverse is the school staff, leadership team, governing board? 

• Do senior leaders and governors implement reviews to ensure DEI is current and relevant? 

• Is the curriculum diverse and representative? 

• Does teaching and learning meet the needs of all learners? Is the environment truly inclusive? 

• Does the curriculum highlight barriers and injustices in an age-appropriate way? 

• Is data robustly analysed to identify barriers for individuals and groups of people? 

• Do staff have training (including governors) in matters relating to The Equality Act 2010 and changes in terms and methodology? 

• How aware are senior leaders, staff and governors of the experience of people with protected characteristics in the school? 

• Has the school identified a DEI leader? Do they have a clear job description? 

• Is the DEI leader able to effect change and have they a positive impact on outcomes for the school? 

• Are staff and governors provided with DEI training and updates? 

Promoting equality, diversity and inclusion, some considerations: 

• Treat everyone fairly: Treat all students and staff with respect and ensure they have equal access to opportunities  

• Create an inclusive culture: Create a supportive environment where everyone feels valued and has a sense of belonging  

• Celebrate differences: Recognize and celebrate differences in race, gender, religion, disability, and sexual orientation  

• Challenge discrimination: Eliminate discrimination, harassment, and victimization  

• Diversify curriculum: Include a diverse range of characters in texts, and focus on key figures who represent diversity in history, music, art, and PE  

• Understand students’ backgrounds: Get to know your students’ unique backgrounds and perspectives  

• Provide opportunities for students to share their stories: Create opportunities for students to share their life stories and perspectives with their peers  

‘Promoting equality, diversity and inclusion (ED&I) in the classroom and beyond should be a cornerstone of effective teaching practice and a leadership priority.’ (Classroom equality, diversity and inclusion in the classroom) 

This blog was written by Bretta Townend-Jowitt, Education Consultant and Trainer.