St. James’ CE Primary is an inclusive school where the well-being and progress of every child, and all members of our community, are of equal worth.

We believe that the Equality Act provides a framework to support our commitment to valuing diversity, tackling discrimination, promoting equality and fostering good relationships between people. It also ensures that we continue to tackle issues of disadvantage and underachievement of different groups. 

Our approach to equality is based on the following key principles:  

1. All learners are of equal value 

Regardless of disability, race, ethnicity, culture, gender, age, religion or belief and sexual orientation. 

2. Recognising, respecting and valuing difference and understanding diversity 
   We take account of differences and strive to remove barriers and disadvantages which people may face, in relation to disability, ethnicity, gender, religion, belief or faith and sexual orientation. We believe that diversity is a strength, which should be respected and celebrated by all those who learn, teach and visit here.  
    
3. Fostering positive attitudes and relationships 
   We actively promote positive attitudes and mutual respect between groups and communities different from each other.
    
4. Fostering a shared sense of cohesion and belonging 
   We want all members of our school community to feel a sense of belonging within the school and wider community and to feel that they are respected and able to participate fully in school life. 
    
5. Observing good equalities practice for our staff 
   We ensure that policies and procedures benefit all employees and potential employees in all aspects of their work, including in recruitment and promotion, and in continuing professional development. 
    
6. Having the highest expectations of all our children 
   We expect that all pupils can make good progress and achieve to their highest potential. We expect them to be Ready, Respectful and Safe.
    
7. Working to raise standards for all pupils, but especially for the most vulnerable 
   We believe that improving the quality of education for the most vulnerable groups of pupils raises standards across the whole school. 

Statement of intent

St. James’ CE Primary Academy recognises that certain groups in society have historically been disadvantaged because of unlawful discrimination they have faced due to their disability, race, ethnicity, culture, gender, age, religion/belief and sexual orientation.

This Equalities statement will put in place a range of actions to eliminate prejudice, unlawful discrimination and victimisation within the school community and workforce.

At St. James’ CE Primary Academy, we are a Christian school committed to ensuring equality of education and opportunity for all pupils, staff, parents and carers receiving services from the school, irrespective of race, gender, disability, faith and religion or socio-economic background. We aim to develop a culture of inclusion and diversity in which all those connected to the school feel proud of their identity and able to participate fully in school life.

The achievement of pupils will be monitored by race, gender and disability and we will use this data to support pupils, raise standards and ensure inclusive teaching. We will tackle discrimination by the positive promotion of equality, challenging bullying and stereotypes and creating an environment which champions respect for all. At St. James’ CE Primary Academy, we believe that diversity is a strength, which should be respected and celebrated by all those who learn, teach and visit here.