Respect, Equality and Diversity (RED) at Highfield

Respect, equality, and diversity are interconnected principles that promote inclusion, fairness, and a positive social environment. Here are definitions for each of these principles:

1. Respect: Respect is a fundamental value that involves recognizing the inherent worth and dignity of all individuals, regardless of their differences. It means treating others with consideration, politeness, and empathy. Respecting others includes valuing their opinions, cultures, beliefs, and personal boundaries. It also means refraining from discrimination, prejudice, and harmful behaviours.
2. Equality: Equality refers to the principle that all individuals should have the same rights, opportunities, and access to resources, regardless of their characteristics or background. It involves ensuring that no one is discriminated against or disadvantaged based on factors such as gender, race, religion, disability, age, or socio-economic status. Equality promotes a level playing field where everyone has an equal chance to succeed and thrive.
3. Diversity: Diversity encompasses the wide range of differences and unique qualities that individuals bring to a community or society. These differences can include but are not limited to race, ethnicity, nationality, gender, sexual orientation, age, disability, religion, socioeconomic status, and cultural background. Embracing diversity means recognizing and celebrating these differences and acknowledging the richness they bring to the Highfield community. It involves creating an inclusive environment where individuals of all backgrounds feel valued and have an opportunity to contribute fully.

Together, these principles foster a more inclusive, fair, and harmonious society where individuals are valued and empowered to reach their full potential. They help children develop respect for diversity, empathy, and a sense of social justice, which are valuable life skills. At Highfield Primary School, we believe three principles are vital not just for the prosperity and well-being of our school, but the entire world. For this reason, Respect, Equality and Diversity (RED) is established as one of our four curriculum key drivers. How RED is woven through our curriculum is mapped and built upon to ensure that it remains at the forefront of our curriculum design.

To support our RED agenda, we have a Respect, Equality, and Diversity Action Plan to proactively promote inclusivity and fairness within our school community. It outlines our priorities and strategies to ensure that respect, equality, and diversity principles are embedded in all aspects of our operations (see action plan below). Our four RED objectives for the school year 2023-24 are:

1. To continue developing the Highfield RED Curriculum by exploiting opportunities to include RED and the protected characteristics
2. To ensure that Highfield meets the spiritual needs of the school community and in particular learners with English as an Additional Language
3. To foster positive attitudes and relationships and a shared sense of cohesion and belonging throughout the whole community (Guiding Principle 3 of the Equalities Policy)
4. To continue to narrow the gap in achievement between students from different learner groups.

Equalities Policy

RED action plan

Respect, Equality & Diversity Through the Highfield Curriculum

Following on from the success of being the first ever school to achieve the Red Kite Respect, Equality & Diversity (RED) Award, Mr Feeley and Mrs Homan were invited to present our equality and diversity work to the Collaborative Learning Trust at Elland Road. Our strategy and curriculum are driven by our context and meeting the demands of not just the Highfield community, but the global community. But our ambition doesn’t stop there; in addition to building our own legacy we are excited to now be supporting other schools who aspire to achieve the accreditation. As well as sharing our skills, knowledge and expertise, working with other schools and multi-academy trusts is an opportunity for us to learn from others and benefit Highfield children.

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This was our first Harmony and Diversity Breakfast. It was a lovely experience for all involved, as we got to chat whilst eating some delicious Rice Kheer brought in by a kind year one parent. We shared our experiences of everything about ourselves, our culture, school and learned a lot about how we live. It was fantastic to see all of our cultures coming together in such a positive way.