Inclusive, Individual, Inspirational. Three words that resonate through Shiplake College, truly embedded in all we do. Creating a supportive and inclusive environment doesn’t happen overnight.
You have heard the adage, ‘actions speak louder than words’ and that certainly is the case. True celebration of equality and diversity takes time, patience and continual reinforcement of ideas.
At Shiplake College we have implemented several items in our quest to improve our understanding and practices centring around equality. Diversity and Equality topics are embedded in our PSHEE programme revisiting topics. Revisiting topics allows us to continually address misconceptions and any bias that students may have.
In addition, it is important for students to take ownership of this material. This was achieved by launching a number of student led societies to tackle issues of Equality and Diversity. These societies include ‘FemSoc’ and our ‘Equality Group’. Evidence has shown that when students are supported in leading these groups it has a higher level of impact. This most certainly has been the case at the college. Through these groups we have made positive changes throughout the college ensuring that all are represented, but most importantly giving them a voice.
Through our work with these groups, we were made aware that some students still felt unable to reach out for support. In response we launched an email address that students or staff could use to reach out for support on any issues of Equality and Diversity including those who are members of the LGBTQ+ community. This has been extremely well received and is a popular go to, not only for students but also our staff. Through this email people are signposted to a whole host of resources and external agencies that offer support.
Why not also take time to celebrate all groups in society? It is common practice to celebrate Black History month, but when did you last celebrate pride month as a whole school? Recently in July we celebrated Pride by flying the LGBTQ+ flag from the tower of our central building and had rainbow themed deserts at lunch. This was a great focus point for not just our current community but for visitors also. Many people noticed the flag, sparking many interesting and positive conversations. Online presence is very important and sharing news and events on social media is something we are proud of here. To reflect our passion and drive for equality and diversity we changed our school social media logo to include the pride flag also.
It is important to note that when sharing good practice, to realise that bringing about a positive change doesn’t require a large investment. Launching student led clubs and email points of contacts require little financial input but bring about a large amount of change and buy-in from students. Creating a positive environment where people are allowed to be themselves means that each student and staff member can ‘bring the best version of themselves to College’. This is not only important in this ever-changing world we live in but is essential for building the future where all members of society are treated equally and fairly, where future generations are inclusive and have broken down barriers through the nurturing education they have been given.
By Andy Jones, Science Teacher and Head of the Diversity and Equality Committee at Shiplake College