EHRC publishes Equality Act guidance for schools

It outlines the requirements under the Equality Act 2010 and explains how those working in schools can create an environment where pupils of all backgrounds and abilities may learn and progress.

Guidance is offered on how all aspects of school life can be administered fairly, including: admissions, education provision, extracurricular activities, afterschool and homework clubs, sports activities and school trips, and access to libraries and computers..

It is aimed at lawyers, courts, tribunals and all who work in schools. The guidance is not a statutory Code of Practice, but can be used as evidence in legal proceedings.

Commission chief operating officer Ian Acheson said: “Schools play a vital role in the shaping of young people - their belief systems, their values and their morality.  To be treated fairly and with respect, to be offered equality of opportunity regardless of gender, age, religion, race or any other human characteristic, is surely a positive foundation for their later years and for how they treat others.”

The guidance can be downloaded from the EHRC's website at the following link: http://www.equalityhumanrights.com/uploaded_files/EqualityAct/PSED/technical_guidance_schools_england_final.pdf