Protected characteristics are specific aspects of a person’s identity defined by the Equality Act 2010. The ‘protection’ relates to protection from discrimination. At New Barn School it is important that all children gain an understanding of the world they are growing up in, and learn how to live alongside, and show respect for, a diverse range of people.
We aim to reduce and remove inequalities and barriers that may already exist. No child should be disadvantaged. Curriculum opportunities are planned to show positive role models who have overcome barriers in order to achieve. This could include celebrating athletes who have triumphed over barriers and inequalities and celebrating the work and achievements of individuals from a range of different backgrounds, ages, ethnicities and genders who have achieved great successes.
We foster positive attitudes and relationships both inside and outside school. We play an active part in our community and work closely with parents and carers who are invited into school at regular opportunities to share in learning experiences and celebrate achievements.
At New Barn School, we are committed to creating an inclusive, respectful and supportive learning environment for every pupil. As part of our holistic curriculum, as well as through Humanities and Personal, Social, Health and Economic education (PSHE), we teach and promote the nine protected characteristics as outlined in the Equality Act 2010.
These protected characteristics are:
- Age
- Disability
- Gender Reassignment
- Marriage and Civil Partnership
- Pregnancy and Maternity
- Race
- Religion or Belief
- Sex
- Sexual Orientation
We promote these in our curriculum and work to embed them into our school community through:
- Our school core ethos and values.
- New Barn School Behaviour Policy.
- Conscious role modelling by all adults in the school community.
- Active engagement and communication with parents and carers.
- Personal, Social, Health and Economic education (PSHE) lessons
- School assemblies.
- SMSC programme
- Humanities/Wider World lessons
- RSE
- Promoting articulation by building appropriate language and a coherent vocabulary.
- Educational visits.
- School Council and pupil voice.
- Personal Development programme.
- Promoting British Values in our school life
- Developing a love of reading and actively promoting a range of authors and genres.
We adapt our curriculum to meet the diverse needs of our pupils, ensuring content is accessible, meaningful and age-appropriate. Through a range of learning experiences, assemblies and discussions, we help pupils understand the importance of treating everyone with dignity and respect.
We work in partnership with parents, carers, and external agencies to reinforce these values across all aspects of school life.
Embedding the Protected Characteristics into the Whole Ethos of New Barn School
At New Barn School, the promotion of the protected characteristics is not limited to lessons alone — it is woven into the very fabric of our school’s ethos and daily life. From the way we model inclusive language and behaviour, to how we celebrate diversity through events, displays and community visits, we ensure that equality and respect are encouraged in every interaction. Staff are trained to recognise and respond to bias, discrimination and exclusion. Through a consistent and whole-school approach, we create a culture where every pupil feels seen, valued and empowered to be themselves.