The Single Equality Scheme for schools and settings is designed to combine the existing schemes for Race, Disability and Gender which are currently in place to meet the current statutory duties for schools and settings and to address the requirements of the Equality Act 2010. The aim of which is to:

• Eliminate discrimination, harassment, victimisation and any other conduct that is prohibited under the Act
• Advance equality of opportunity between persons who share a relevant protected characteristic and persons who do not share it;
• Foster good relations between persons who share a relevant protected characteristic and persons who do not share it

It goes beyond the three strands of the equalities agenda and begins to consider how the Academy develops its approach to equalities and diversity for all our pupils, staff and their parents and carers across all strands. We are also committed to responding to all diversity related legislation and feel that a single equality scheme is the best mechanism for achieving this.

The scheme also highlights how the Academy has worked with and listened to the staff, pupils, parents and carers to inform development of action plans and the need and commitment required to ensure the scheme is a success.

Staff

As well as delivering high quality services to its pupils, the Academy is also committed to being a good employer and as such this scheme outlines how we meet our varied duties in terms of recruitment and employment practices.

Pupils

Teaching children about equalities, rights and difference is an important part of our approach to developing our pupils into tolerant and caring individuals. We aim for our children to be 'good people' - and in order to do that, they must be able and willing to recognise, understand and embrace difference. Our PSHE curriculum, encompassing our approach to Relationships and Sex Education, is key in delivering this mission - as part of our wider ethos and the values which we promote.