FAQs

Frequently Asked Questions

• What are the benefits of taking part?

  The Equalities Award provides support and guidance for schools to effectively promote equality, diversity and inclusion and allows schools to showcase their commitment to equality.

  There is much evidence to support the fact that a whole-school approach to equality both increases young people’s wellbeing and achievement. The Equalities Award provides schools with the opportunity to showcase the work they are already doing but also to receive support and guidance on improving equality practice throughout their setting.

  During the Award process schools are supported by a dedicated Award Representative who provides tailored feedback on their work. Alongside this, schools have access to EqualiTeach Empowered subscription to support their equality and diversity practice throughout the school.

  The Award has also been designed to enable schools to fulfil their statutory duties to:

  ·         Eliminate discrimination, advance equality of opportunity and foster good relations as set out in the Equality Act 2010.

  ·         Promote community cohesion as per the Education and Inspections Act 2006.

  ·         Prevent people from being drawn into terrorism. This is one of the duties placed upon all public bodies as part of the Counter Terrorism and Security   Act 2015.

  ·         Safeguard children and promote spiritual, moral, social and cultural development as set out in the Education Act 2002.

  On completion of the Award, schools are provided with a portfolio showcasing the work they have done. This can be shared with external agencies, including Ofsted.

• Who is eligible to apply?

  All types and phases of schools, including special schools and pupil referral units are welcome to apply. It is important to emphasise that the Equalities Award is not just for organisations with diverse populations; legal duties relating to equality are applicable to all.

• How can I register my school?

  Simply call us on 01480 470660, visit www.equalitiesaward.co.uk and fill in the form or e-mail us at [email protected] with details of your setting. From here a member of the team will contact you to discuss which level of Award is most appropriate for your school, answer any questions you may have. Once decided, you'll complete a registration form to secure your place on one of our half-termly cohorts. 

• How do I know what level my school is at?

  The Equalities Award is divided in to three levels: Bronze, Silver and Gold. Schools can enter the awarding process at Bronze or Silver level, depending on which is most suitable for where they are in their equalities journey. Schools must achieve a Silver Award before embarking on Gold!

   

  Upon registering for the Award a member of the team will be in touch with you to discuss which level is most appropriate.

   

  Each level is summarised below:

   

  Bronze: This stage helps schools ensure the foundations of strong equality and diversity practice are in place. The Bronze Award can be viewed a stepping stone to the Silver Award, establishing your school’s commitment to developing best practice in equality and inclusion.

   

  Silver: At this stage your school is building on strong foundations to ensure that equality and diversity practice flow through all aspects of your setting.

   

  Gold: Gold schools are a beacon for others. In such schools, the positive impact of best equality and diversity practice is clearly visible.

• Can I talk to someone to discuss my requirements?

  Of course! We are always available to discuss your options and answer any questions you may have. Call us on 01480 470660 or e-mail [email protected]  to find out more.

• How much does it cost?

  The Bronze Award is available at a cost of £1000 +VAT and lasts for eighteen months on completion.

  The Silver Award is available at a cost of £1,500 +VAT and lasts for three years on completion.

  The Gold Award is available at a cost of £900 +VAT and lasts for three years on completion. Schools must achieve a Silver Award before embarking on Gold.

  All levels have eighteen months in which to complete the Award.

  The Award page outlines the benefits included at each level. 

• Are there any hidden costs?

  No. Your school will be invoiced at the beginning of the registration process and there will only be additional costs if you decide to upgrade your Award or purchase additional training and support. Staff training, and young people’s workshops can be booked at a discount for schools during the Silver and Gold Award process, however these are entirely optional and not a prerequisite to achieving Award status.

   

  In the rare circumstance that a school does not complete their Award within the 18 month timeframe, there may be additional charges to extend their deadline, but this will be discussed with the school in advance.

• When can I start?

  We register half-termly intakes for the Award. Demand is high so we are often registering schools one or two terms in advance of their start date. Our current intake will be made clear to you in our initial contact, and preliminary materials are sent for schools as they wait to get started!