Protected characteristics

At Woodlands, we teach children that we all have characteristics and that nine are protected.

Within our school community, every child is valued, celebrated, and supported to thrive. We are committed to creating a welcoming, fair environment where diversity is respected and equality is woven into daily school life.

Our Legal & Rights-Based Framework

We base our inclusive ethos on national law and international children's rights:

The Equality Act 2010: Applies to everyone in Britain and protects people from discrimination, harassment, and victimisation across nine protected characteristics:
1. Age
2. Disability
3. Gender reassignment
4. Marriage & civil partnership
5. Pregnancy & maternity
6. Race (colour, nationality, ethnic origin)
7. Religion or belief
8. Sex
9. Sexual orientation
UNCRC Article 2 (Non-Discrimination): All children have rights regardless of race, gender, religion, background, or ability. No child is ever treated unfairly.
Adults as Duty Bearers: Under the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child, adults (staff, parents, and community members) are "duty bearers" who hold the responsibility to respect, protect, and uphold children's rights every single day.

Zero Tolerance Policy: Discrimination of any kind is never tolerated at Woodlands. We build active respect for all individuals and families across our school.

Learning in an Age-Appropriate Way

We do not teach all nine protected characteristics in every year group. Our Million Dreams curriculum is carefully planned so children build understanding, empathy, and appropriate vocabulary progressively as they mature.

How We Promote Equality Every Day

Rather than just talking about inclusion, we build it into everything we do:

School Ethos & Environment

School Values & Vision: Embedded in our behaviour policy and school improvement plans.
Conscious Role Modelling: Adults actively demonstrate kindness, inclusion, and fairness.
Parent Partnership: Open communication and engagement with families and carers.

Learning & Curriculum

Million Dreams Subjects: Inclusive lessons designed to reflect diverse cultures and perspectives.
PSHE, RSE & Religion and Worldviews: Structured lessons that teach empathy and respect.
Whole-School Assemblies: Regular sessions celebrating shared values and diversity.

Student Engagement

Pupil Voice: Active opportunities through School Council, clubs, and charity work.
Community Links: Educational trips and local outreach activities.

Celebrating Our Achievements

UNICEF Rights Respecting Schools Award: We are proud to hold the Silver Award, recognising our commitment to embedding children's rights into our school culture.
WIRE Award: We actively participate in promoting religious and cultural awareness. Find out more here