DRUMCHAPELHIGH SCHOOL

Policy for Racial Equality and Cultural Diversity

SMT Responsibility:Mr R Williamson HT

1.The purpose of this policy is to demonstrate how we in DrumchapelHigh School will meet will meet our responsibilities and carry out our duties under the Race Relations (Amendment) Act 2000. As an inclusive school we are committed to:

  • promoting equality of opportunity
  • promoting good relations between members of different racial, cultural and religious groups and communities
  • eliminating unlawful discrimination.

These commitments made to all members of our school community, young people and adults regardless of their role and responsibilities within our school.

2.In fulfilling our legal duties listed above, we are guided by three essential principles:

  • every young person should have opportunities to achieve the highest possible standards and the best possible qualifications for the next stage of their life and education
  • every young person should be supported in developing a sense of personal and cultural identity that is confident, open to change, and respectful towards other identities
  • every young person should develop the knowledge, understanding and skills they need in order to participate in Scotland’s multi-ethnic society and in the wider context of an interdependent world
  • every adult should have the opportunity to carry out their duties free from racial comment or discrimination.

3.We ensure that the principles listed above apply to the full range of our policies and practices, including those that are concerned with:

  • pupils’ progress, attainment and assessment
  • behaviour, discipline and exclusions
  • pupils’ personal development and pastoral care
  • teaching and learning
  • admissions and attendance
  • the context of the curriculum
  • staff recruitment and professional development
  • partnership with parents and communities
  • the school’s values
  • racial harassment and bullying
  • school board membership.
  • DrumchapelHigh School is opposed to all forms of racism and xenophobia,

including those forms that are directed towards religious groups and communities and against travellers, refugees and asylum-seekers.

  • Education Services are responsible for ensuring that the school complies with appropriate legislation and that this policy and its related procedures and strategies are implemented.
  • The headteacher is responsible for implementing the policy; for ensuring that all staff are aware of their responsibilities and are given appropriate training and support; and for taking appropriate action in any case of unlawful discrimination.
  • Racist Incidents, intentional and unintentional will be reported using Education services procedures. They will also be dealt with through the school behaviour management system as appropriate.
  • All members of staff are expected to deal with racist incidents as they occur; to know how to identify and challenge racial and cultural bias and stereotyping; to support pupils in their class for whom English is an additional language: and to incorporate principles of equality and diversity into all aspects of their work.
  • DrumchapelHigh School respects the religious beliefs and practices of all staff, pupils and parents and will comply with all reasonable requests relating to religious observance and practice.
  • The content of this policy will be brought to the attention of all staff, pupils an

parents and the implementation of the policy will influence all appropriate aspects of the life of the school and be part of the school’s development plan.

  • The policy will be monitored and evaluated using quantitative and qualitative data to help ensure effective implementation and to make adjustments as appropriate.

Racial Equality and Cultural Diversity Policy – staff handbook 2011-2012