Churchfield Equality Statement

At Churchfield, we are committed to ensuring equality of education and opportunity for all pupils, staff, parents and carers receiving services from the school, irrespective of race, gender and disability, faith or religion or socio-economic background. We aim to develop a culture of inclusion and diversity in which all those connected to the school feel proud of their identity and able to participate fully in school life.

We will tackle discrimination by the positive promotion of equality, challenging bullying and stereotypes and creating an environment which champions respect for all. At our school we believe that diversity is a strength, which should be respected and celebrated by all those who learn, teach and visit here.

The Equality Act 2010

Under the Equality Act 2010, it is unlawful to discriminate against a pupil or prospective pupil by treating them less favourably on the basis of a ‘protected characteristic’

The protected characteristics are:

• Age
• Race
• Disability
• Sex/Gender
• Gender reassignment
• Sexual orientation
• Religion or belief
• Pregnancy or maternity
• Marriage or civil partnership

A person’s age is also a protected characteristic in relation to employment, and in regard to the provision for goods and services. It does not however apply to pupils, and so the school is free to arrange pupils in classes based on their age group with materials appropriate to them.

The Equality Act 2010 introduced a single Public Sector Equality Duty (2011), which applies to public bodies, school including both LA maintained and Academies. The school must have due regard to the need to:

• Eliminate discrimination and other conduct that is prohibited by the act
• Advance equality and opportunity between people who share a prohibited characteristic and people who do not share it
• Foster good relationships across all characteristics, between people who share a protected characteristic and people and who do not share it.

Having due regard in this context means that when significant decisions are being taken, thought must be given to the equality implications.

Equality Objectives

The Equality Act 2010 requires schools to publish specific and measurable equality objectives. At Churchfield, our objectives are informed by our understanding of the needs of our pupils, families, staff and wider community. We are committed to promoting equality, celebrating diversity and ensuring that every member of our school community can thrive.

Our Equality Objectives are:

1. To improve outcomes for all pupils

• Monitor attainment and progress across different pupil groups, including disadvantaged pupils, pupils with SEND and pupils from different ethnic backgrounds.

• Identify and address any gaps in achievement to ensure all pupils have equal opportunities to succeed.

2. To promote inclusion, respect and understanding

• Strengthen pupils' understanding of equality, diversity and protected characteristics through the curriculum, assemblies and enrichment activities.

• Foster a culture where differences are valued and all members of the school community feel respected and included.

3. To reduce incidents of prejudice-based bullying and discrimination

• Encourage pupils to report concerns and ensure all incidents are recorded, monitored and addressed appropriately.

• Promote positive relationships and mutual respect across the school community.

4. To ensure equal access to school life

• Review participation in clubs, trips, leadership opportunities and wider school activities to ensure that all pupils, including those with disabilities and additional needs, can take part fully.

• Remove barriers that may prevent participation and engagement.

These objectives will be monitored by school leaders and governors and reviewed regularly. They will be formally reviewed and updated by September 2029.