PROMOTING THE NINE PROTECTED CHARACTERISITICS

The Equality Act became law in 2010. It covers everyone in Britain and protects people from discrimination, harassment and victimisation. 

The Equality Act protects people against discrimination because of the protected characteristics that we all have.

Under the Equality Act, there are nine protected characteristics:

1. Age
2. Disability
3. Gender reassignment
4. Race -  including colour, nationality, ethnic or national origin
5. Religion or belief
6. Marriage or civil partnership
7. Sex
8. Sexual orientation
9. Pregnancy and maternity

No form of discrimination is tolerated at Birdwell School Academy and our pupils show respect for those who share the protected characteristics. 

We ensure that our children understand that:

• Everyone is different
• Our differences are celebrated
• We are equal in our differences

We do not teach about all the protected characteristics in every year group. The curriculum is planned and delivered so that our pupils develop age appropriate knowledge and understanding during their time at Birdwell School Academy. This is through stories, assemblies, special days and experiences - as well as more discrete teaching as the children move through the school.