Damien Bell
In the dynamic landscape of education, fostering an inclusive and diverse learning environment is not just a moral imperative but a fundamental aspect of effective teaching. The concept of equality and diversity extends beyond mere acknowledgment; it requires proactive measures to ensure that every student, regardless of background or characteristics, has the opportunity to thrive academically.
Equality is about ensuring that every individual has an equal opportunity to make the most of their lives and talents.
It is also the belief that no one should have poorer life chances because of the way they were born, where thy come from, what they believe or whether they have a disability.
Protected Characteristics:
Religion
Gender Gender reassignment
sex
sexuality
Disability
Pregnancy and maternity
Age Race
Marriage and civil partnership
MES equality objectives:
"We will always seek to act in a way which is fair, non-discriminatory, and does not put individuals or groups at a disadvantage. This does not mean always treating all people exactly the same e.g.: where there is a need to overcome existing inequalities reasonable actions will be taken."
• All members of the Trust and the wider community are of equal value and so we will
work to reduce and remove inequalities and barriers that already exist to those with
protected characteristics and the most disadvantaged.
• We recognise, respect, and represent diversity and social identity in a balanced and
positive way.
• We foster positive attitudes and relationships, and a shared sense of cohesion and
belonging.
• Encourage participation and representation in all areas of school life by different
groups, pupils/students, and staff alike: in this way all parties have the opportunity to
reach their full potential.
• We will create and maintain a culture where people feel comfortable to discuss,
explore and celebrate different experiences and backgrounds – including holding
differing views where respectfully and kindly expressed.
• We will ensure that the recruitment, retention, and ongoing development of staff are
undertaken in a fair and equitable.
• In fulfilling its duty to promote and teach British Values, Maiden Erlegh Trust, and its
schools, contribute to a society in which there is a common vision and sense of
belonging and worth by all communities.
• Take reasonable and proportionate action to address the disadvantage and
challenges faced by particular groups of students, including reviewing progress of
students by groups as identified in data monitoring sets.
Reality - disadvantage exists in our society
Equality - is it fair to give equal opportunities to all when disadvantage exists in society inherently?
Equity - adjusting provision and opportunities to ensure fairness
Liberation - removing the barries altogether
Disadvantaged groups:
Disadvantaged students are those who have hindrances to excelling in school because of detrimental circumstances beyond their control.
The government specifically defines disadvantage through 'Looked after students', and 'free school meals'.
However there are other models of students that need to be considered in respect to inequity. i.e.
'Pupil premium', SEN needs, young carers. (These are not considered/defined in the government as disadvantaged.
(Ofsted data dashboard - a good place to look before commencing work in a school.)
There is a national significant gender gap, where girls are achieving a lot less than boys on average.
Diversity - How we celebrate, and support, diversity within the school:
LGBTQIA+ safe space
Black history month
Celebrating ramadan and marking other religious festivals
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