Equality Objectives

The Equality Act 2010 was introduced to ensure protection from discrimination, harassment and victimisation on the grounds of specific characteristics (referred to as protected characteristics). For schools, this means that it is unlawful to discriminate against individuals or treat them less favourably because of their gender; race; age; disability; religion or belief; gender reassignment; sexual orientation; pregnancy or maternity.

It is central to our school community that all members are known, nurtured and inspired. Our Equality Objectives enable us to hear the voice of all and ensure that we ‘Speak up for those who cannot speak for themselves’ Proverbs 31:8.

Under the Act, Bishops’ Blue Coat CE High School is expected to comply with the Public Sector Equality Duty (PSED). This requires us to:

• Eliminate unlawful discrimination, harassment and victimisation
• Advance equality of opportunity between different groups
• Foster good relations between different groups

As a public organisation, we are required to:

• Have due regard to the PSED when making decisions, taking action or developing policy and practice
• Publish information to show compliance with the Equality Duty. This is done via our Equalities Policy
• Publish Equality Objectives which are specific and measurable

We have three Equality Objectives specific to our setting highlighted under each of the 3 broad objectives

Eliminate unlawful discrimination, harassment and victimisation.

• Increase staff understanding of ‘equality’ and implications for all on a daily basis, through CPD in order that staff understand the implications of the Equality Act.
• Make reasonable adjustments so that all students, staff, parents/carers and visitors have access to all school activities.
• Continue to reduce the number of all prejudice based incidents. Those which do occur are recorded and reported

Advance equality of opportunity for all

• Ensure fair access to the curriculum offer for those with different abilities; including access to appropriate pathways, EBacc/ facilitating subjects and through promoting inclusive approaches to teaching and learning and the use of specialist equipment where necessary.
• Strive to ensure the attendance of all disadvantaged pupils reflects the school target of 96%

 Advance equality of opportunity for all

• Ensure fair access to the curriculum offer for those with different abilities; including access to appropriate pathways, EBacc/ facilitating subjects and through promoting inclusive approaches to teaching and learning and the use of specialist equipment where necessary.
• Strive to ensure the attendance of all disadvantaged pupils reflects the school target of 96%