Equality & Diversity
Orchard School Bristol is committed to our duties under the Public Sector Equality Duty 2010, which are to:
- Eliminate unlawful discrimination, harassment and victimisation and other conduct prohibited by the Act
- Advance equality of opportunity between people who share a protected characteristic and those who do not
- Foster good relations between people who share a protected characteristic and those who do not
We understand the principle of the Act and the work needed to ensure that those with protected characteristics are respected, not discriminated against and are given equality of opportunity.
Our intention is to eliminate all forms of prejudice and unfair discrimination within and beyond the school community, and actively challenge stereotypes, prejudiced attitudes and unfair discriminatory behaviour.
We are fully committed to inclusive education which enables and supports all students to develop their full potential. We make reasonable adjustments and do our utmost, within available resources, to remove barriers which limit or discourage access to provision and activities. We take positive action to provide encouragement and effective support to individuals and groups whose progress has been limited by protected characteristics, stereotypes and cultural expectations.
We prepare students for life in a diverse society.
We recognise that diversity is a strength to be championed and celebrated.
“Protected characteristics” under the Act covers the groups listed below:
- Age
- Disability
- Gender reassignment
- Maternity and pregnancy
- Race
- Religion and belief
- Sexual orientation
- Sex
- Marriage and civil partnership (for employees)
Our Equality and Diversity Strategy is an essential part of our work at Orchard. We agree our Action Plan following feedback from our stakeholders (parents, carers, staff, students. governors and the SEND team). Our Action Plan is monitored and reported to the local governing body and made available here on the website.
Anti-Racism
Orchard School Bristol Anti-Racism Statement 2025
Context
In 2023, Orchard School partnered with Representation Matters to audit our systems, values, and curriculum through the lens of race. The resulting action plan guides our ongoing anti-racism work. We are proud of our School of Sanctuary status and our strong support for EAL students, reflected in their outstanding progress. Our commitment to inclusion and anti-racism is embedded in school and Trust-wide policies.
Our Commitment
Orchard School is dedicated to challenging and changing the values, structures, policies, and behaviors that perpetuate racism. We strive to create a safe, inclusive, and empowering environment for all students and staff.
How We Enact It
Values & Ethos
We live our values of open-minded, respect, creative & curious, healthy, ambitious, responsibility, and determined in all that we do, ensuring every student embodies these values daily.
Staff Training
Our staff undergo regular equality, diversity, and inclusion training, including topics like colourism, which has led to improvements in behavior reporting and responses to racist incidents. We prioritise restorative practices over punitive measures.
Curriculum & Learning
Our curriculum reflects our diverse community and global issues, integrating anti-racism across PSHE, the tutor programme, and subject areas.
Monitoring Equity
We track and report demographic participation and attainment to ensure no group, particularly Black, Asian, or global majority students, is disadvantaged.
Student Voice
We actively engage students in shaping our culture through councils, representative groups, and inclusive clubs.
High Expectations
We are committed to offering high-quality education, addressing systemic barriers, and providing targeted support to ensure all students succeed.
