Spires Equality Objectives
The Equality Act 2010 was introduced to ensure protection from discrimination, harassment and victimisation on the grounds of specific characteristics (referred to as protected characteristics). For schools, this means that it is unlawful to discriminate against students or treat them less favourably because of their gender; race; disability; religion or belief; gender reassignment; sexual orientation; pregnancy or maternity.
Marriage and civil partnerships and age are also 'protected characteristics', but do not apply to our provision for students.
Under the Act, the school is expected to comply with the Public Sector Equality Duty. This requires us to:
- Eliminate unlawful discrimination, harassment and victimisation
- Advance equality of opportunity between different groups
- Foster good relations between different groups
- As a public organisation, we are required to:
- Publish information to show compliance with the Equality Duty. This is done via our Equalities Policy
- Publish Equality Objectives which are specific and measurable
Our Equalities Policy is in line with national guidance and contains information about how the school complies with the Public Sector Equality Duty. We also give guidance to staff and outside visitors on our approach to promoting equality.
Our Equality Objectives reflect the school's priorities and draw upon available data and other evidence. Careful analysis of this is undertaken in order to ensure that we are working to achieve improved outcomes for different groups.
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Objective |
Why we chose it |
What we are doing |
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To narrow the gap in Progress and attainment measures between students deemed to be disadvantaged and other students.
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Evidence shows that in line with National averages our Pupil Premium students’ performance has been below that of the Non Pupil Premium. Predictions based on FFT suggest this trend will continue. |
Our detailed Pupil Premium Strategy demonstrates how we intend to do this. This plan will be monitored throughout the year. |
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To narrow the gap between Male and Female attainment in English and mathematics.
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On analysis of historic results it was evident that Males did considerably better in mathematics than Females, and Females out performed Males in English. We wish to redress this balance and challenge this trend.
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English and maths faculties are aware of the difference and have adjusted the curriculum. Assessment data is regularly monitored and this issue is closely tracked by the faculties. |
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To raise levels of student engagement in learning and school life, across all activities including regular attendance to school and participation in extracurricular activities. |
Attendance has been an issue for the Academy and is critical in raising achievement and improving life chances.
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The Attendance plan details how we are addressing this issue. Attendance is monitored on a daily basis |
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To raise levels of parental engagement in learning and school life, across all activities including regular attendance to ensure equity and fairness in access and engagement.
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Levels of parental engagement were low evidenced in attendance at parent evenings and parent view responses. Our parental body is a critical partner in supporting us to raise the aspirations and achievements of our students. Particularly in families where ongoing participation in education has been low. |
The Academy has formed a parental working party and is hoping to work towards the LPPA quality mark. |
These objectives are to be reviewed in July 2024.