Equal Opportunities

Our policy

We will make sure that we actively promote equality of opportunity and anti-discriminatory practices for all children. We will make sure that we treat all children with equal concern and respect.

➢ We recognise and welcome all legislation and existing codes of practice produced by appropriate commissions, for example the Equality and Human Rights Commission.

➢ We value and respect the different racial origins, religions, cultures and languages. We will aim to provide equal opportunities for all in our care, regardless of their gender, race, culture, social background, religion, language or any disabilities by supporting their individual needs such as diet and religious or cultural festivals.

➢ For children whose home language is not English, we will take reasonable steps to provide

opportunities for children to develop and use their home language in play and learning.

➢ We will promote positive images/examples to develop equal opportunities through: - play and toys; - Food and meals; - Marking festivals and special occasions; - being a good role model - encouraging children to respect others.

➢ We provide equal chances for each child to learn and develop to their full potential, taking into account each child’s age and stage of development, gender, ethnicity and ability.

➢ We will make reasonable adjustments and adapt activities to ensure all children, including those who are disabled or have special educational needs feel included, valued and supported.

➢ We will work with parents and other agencies as appropriate to promote this equality & diversity policy.

➢ We will review, monitor and evaluate the effectiveness of inclusive practices through activity planning and post activity reflection.

➢ We understand that it is appropriate to challenge inappropriate attitudes and practices relating to equal opportunities. We will do this by providing a positive example and explaining in appropriate terms, why a person’s behaviour may have been inappropriate.

➢ We will always help children to feel good about themselves and others by celebrating the differences which makes us all unique.

➢ We endeavour to create an environment of mutual respect and tolerance and help children to understand that discriminatory behaviour and remarks are hurtful and unacceptable.

➢ We will challenge and take action against any offensive or discriminatory behaviour, language or attitudes with regards to race, colour, ethnicity, nationality, social background, religion, culture, gender, language, sexual orientation, disability and age.

➢ Actively promote anti-discriminatory practice to build an inclusive environment.

➢ We will work with professionals from outside the setting to provide multi agency support for

children and families when required.

➢ We endeavour to enable all children to have access to our activities and will provide action plans and 1:1 support if required to ensure this. This way we ensure that all children have equality of access to learning.

Inclusive practice

All staff members share the responsibility for ensuring that we provide a fully inclusive setting.
As a staff team we aim to recognise and examine our own beliefs and prejudices in relation to our practice.
Training is provided for staff to enable them to develop anti discriminatory and inclusive practices.
Every child has a key person who liaises with parents/carers to identify a child’s individual needs and requirements.
There is no stereotyping by staff and children. Anti social, racist and sexist remarks will be challenged, encouraging those responsible to overcome their prejudices.
We will fully support any child, parent or member of staff who encountered discrimination in a sensitive and constructive manner.

Action to be taken if there is a case of discrimination

Any concerns regarding discrimination should be reported to the manager.
Consideration will take place as to whether discrimination has occurred and an appropriate response will be decided upon. The response may be made in writing is appropriate. A report will be made of the incident.
At any point, our complaints procedure may be put into place.

CREATED: AUGUST 2019 REVIEWED: AUGUST 2022 NEXT REVIEW: AUGUST 2023