Diversity, Equality and Inclusion Ambition Statement:

We believe that all members of our school community benefit from the contributions of; students, teachers, leaders, governors, support staff and families who are drawn from all backgrounds. Our ambition is to continually strive to build an inclusive and welcoming school in which all members of our community feel that their identity is welcomed and celebrated and their voices and experiences are valued. Our ambition is that all members of Downlands feel a deep sense of belonging. We believe that the work of being an inclusive and welcoming school is the responsibility of all members of our community.

Our Ambition is that:

1) We ensure that there is equity in our provision by consistently reviewing policies, practices and school data to make certain that ALL students thrive academically. We also ensure ALL students take advantage of the enrichment opportunities offered as part of our wider curriculum, as well as developing their character (ROCKS) to be successful beyond Downlands.

2) There is an ambitious and inclusive curriculum by continually reviewing our provision to ensure that students build a strong knowledge and understanding of diverse groups and their contribution to modern Britain and the global community. It is our ambition that diversity is consistently celebrated throughout our curriculum rather being restricted to annual events such as Black History month.

3) There is an inclusive school environment in which resources and activities represent and celebrate diversity. In which students are encouraged to question their cultural viewpoints as well understanding and appreciating different perspectives. Teachers are confident to explore and discuss issues around diversity, inclusion and equality.

4) There is meaningful dialogue about diversity and inclusion as Downlands provides a safe environment in which the voices and concerns from across our community are heard. The community are confident in raising issues and reporting issues of intolerance.

Equality Objectives 2025-2027
1.
To reduce the use of homophobic, sexist, and other discriminatory language in our community. This is to be demonstrated by an improved response to student and staff surveys with the aim of reducing the proportion of respondents who claim such comments are common by 20%.
2.
To continue to raise the achievement and engagement of disadvantaged groups through the development of inclusive teaching practice and routines so that it becomes a consistent feature of all lessons. This is be demonstrated through the achievement of all students and in particular our disadvantaged groups
3.
To improve the attendance of our disadvantaged groups. This is to be demonstrated through the improving attendance of disadvantaged students to be sig+ above the national average according to ISDR.

Equality Objectives ACTION PLAN 2026

Equality, Diversity & Inclusion Policy