Personal Development

Promoting the nine Protected Characteristics at Oxclose Primary Academy

At our school, we are committed to creating an inclusive, respectful, and safe environment for every child and adult. The Equality Act 2010 protects everyone in Britain from discrimination, harassment, and victimisation. It identifies nine Protected Characteristics, and we actively teach and promote understanding of these through our curriculum, assemblies, and daily school life.

How We Teach and Promote Them

We weave these principles into everything we do, ensuring pupils learn about equality, respect, and fairness in age-appropriate ways:

1. Age
   • We teach pupils to respect people of all ages and challenge stereotypes about young and older people through stories, discussions, and community projects.
2. Disability
   • We promote understanding of different abilities and needs, encouraging empathy and inclusion. Pupils learn that everyone can achieve and contribute in different ways.
3. Gender Reassignment
   • We teach respect for all individuals and challenge gender-based stereotypes. Pupils learn that everyone has the right to be themselves.
4. Race
   • Through our curriculum, we celebrate diversity and teach about different cultures and histories. We challenge racism and promote equality for all ethnic groups.
5. Religion or Belief
   • We teach about different faiths and beliefs, encouraging respect and understanding. Pupils learn that everyone has the right to their own beliefs.
6. Marriage and Civil Partnership
   • We promote respect for different family structures and relationships, helping pupils understand that families can look different, but all deserve respect.
7. Sex
   • We challenge gender stereotypes and promote equality between boys and girls in all aspects of school life.
8. Sexual Orientation
   • We teach that everyone should be treated with respect regardless of who they love. We promote kindness and challenge prejudice.
9. Pregnancy and Maternity
   • We help pupils understand and respect the changes and responsibilities that come with pregnancy and caring for a baby.

Our Approach

• Curriculum Links: PSHE, RSE, RE and assemblies include lessons on diversity, equality, and respect.
• School Values: Our values underpin everything we do, promoting kindness, fairness, and inclusion.
• Celebrating Diversity: We mark events such as Religious Celebration Days, Holocaust Memorial Day, International Women’s Day, and Disability Awareness Week.
• Role Models: We share stories of inspiring people from all backgrounds to challenge stereotypes.

11-by-11 Offer Poster