Public Sector Equality Duty

We fully recognise our responsibilities under the Equality Act 2010 and are committed to upholding the three core aims of the Public Sector Equality Duty:

• Eliminating discrimination, harassment and victimisation
• Advancing equality of opportunity
• Fostering good relationships between different groups

We are committed to ensuring that no member of our school community is treated unfairly because of their:

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

Promoting Equality and Inclusion

At Bentham Community Primary School, we strive to create a safe, inclusive and respectful environment where everyone feels valued. We actively promote pupils’ spiritual, moral, social and cultural (SMSC) development, with a strong focus on equality, diversity and mutual respect.

We believe that celebrating individuality strengthens our community. We therefore:

• Treat all members of the school community with fairness and respect
• Promote understanding and appreciation of diversity
• Provide an inclusive curriculum that is accessible to all pupils
• Encourage kindness, empathy and open-mindedness
• Support pupils to develop confidence and fulfil their potential

Our curriculum offers opportunities for children to explore a wide range of ideas and perspectives, helping them to develop respect for others and an understanding of life in modern Britain.

Addressing Discrimination and Prejudice

We have a zero-tolerance approach to discrimination, bullying or prejudice of any kind. All incidents are taken seriously, recorded appropriately and dealt with in line with our policies. We work with pupils to ensure that any incidents are addressed in a way that educates, supports and promotes positive behaviour.

Through our curriculum and wider school life, we aim to ensure that pupils are:

• Respectful and understanding of others
• Aware of what constitutes discrimination
• Inclusive in their attitudes and behaviour
• Prepared to contribute positively to society

Staff Responsibilities

All staff are expected to:

• Promote equality and inclusion in their practice
• Act as positive role models
• Challenge discrimination and prejudice where it occurs
• Follow school policies relating to equality

We are committed to fair and equitable treatment for all staff, ensuring that employment decisions are free from discrimination.

Equality Objectives

In line with the Public Sector Equality Duty, the school publishes equality information annually and sets clear objectives at least every four years. These objectives are monitored regularly by school leaders and governors.

Our current objectives are:

1. To reduce gaps in attainment and progress between all pupils and identified groups, including those eligible for Pupil Premium.
2. To embed equality considerations across all school policies, ensuring they actively promote inclusion and prevent discrimination.
3. To ensure all staff understand their responsibilities under the Equality Act, through induction and ongoing training.
4. To strengthen pupils’ SMSC development, particularly in relation to equality, diversity and inclusion.
5. To actively promote equality of opportunity and positive relationships between different groups within the school community.
6. To engage with pupils, parents and the wider community to inform our approach to promoting equality and addressing barriers.

Review

This statement and our equality objectives are reviewed regularly to ensure they remain relevant, effective and reflective of our school community.

Latest review: September 2025