The Extend Learning Academies Network (ELAN) is committed to encouraging and achieving a working environment which is underpinned by fairness to all individuals, where equality and diversity is recognised, encouraged and valued, and the concept of individual responsibility is accepted by all of our school community. ELAN aims to develop a culture of inclusion and diversity in which individuality is embraced, all forms of discrimination are opposed and where all those connected to the trust feel proud of their identity and are able to participate fully in school life.

ELAN aims to promote an inclusive culture and working environment which demonstrates a strong commitment to fairness and equality in everything it does, aiming to advance equality of opportunity and fosters good relationships for all.

An environment where we:

• endeavour to ensure that everyone is treated fairly and with respect

• work hard to make sure that all trust premises provide a safe and secure environment for everyone

• recognise that people have different needs and we understand that treating people equally does not always involve treating people exactly the same

• recognise that for some pupils’, extra support is needed to help them to achieve and be successful

• aim to ensure that no one experiences harassment, less favourable treatment or discrimination because of their protected characteristic

• work hard to ensure the diversity of all employees is respected and valued • ensure all employees have the opportunity to receive fair treatment in an environment free from discrimination and harassment

• strive to ensure that opportunities for promotion, training, and continued employment are provided to all staff based on merit and ability in relation the role criteria.

• ensure that we do not disadvantage employees or job applicants by requirements that cannot be shown to be relevant to the job they applied for or hold

• provide help and encouragement to allow all employees to develop their full potential • will not tolerate any form of intimidation, bullying or harassment

Equality Objectives 2022-2025

ELAN will continue to monitor and assess its processes, to ensure it continues to promote equality of opportunity for all. To demonstrate this commitment, we have developed the following equality objectives which will help us take forward equality and diversity matters as an educator and employer.

• to use performance data to monitor pupil achievement and respond to variations between groups of pupils, subjects, key stages, trends over time and comparisons with other schools

• to raise the awareness and skills of staff to promote fairness, equality and good relations in the context of their role

• to provide an environment that welcomes, protects and respects diverse people

• to ensure that all pupils and other stakeholders are given the opportunity to make a positive contribution to school life

• to increase pupil awareness and understanding of different communities through assemblies and cultural events

• to raise awareness of the impact of bullying, especially where this relates to protected characteristics

• to monitor the incidence of policy breaches