Diversity and inclusion

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Our pupils know and understand the importance of showing respect to everyone, whatever differences we may have, and to everything, whether it is a school resource or a religious belief. We promote and celebrate diversity implicitly in all we do and explicitly through our curriculum and highlight events and celebrations throughout the year.  British Values of Mutual Respect and Tolerance are taught through our School Value of Kindness.

At Castledown, we are committed to ensuring equity of education and opportunity for all pupils, staff, parents and carers receiving services from the school, irrespective of race, gender, sexuality, disability, faith or religion or socio-economic background. We aim to develop a culture of inclusion and diversity in which all those connected to the school feel proud of their identity and able to participate fully in school life.

The achievement of pupils will be monitored by race, gender and disability and we will use this data to support pupils, raise standards and ensure inclusive teaching. We will tackle discrimination by the positive promotion of equality, challenging bullying and stereotypes and creating an environment which champions respect for all. At Castledown, we believe that diversity is a strength, which should be respected and celebrated by all those who learn, teach and visit here.

Ark Castledown is committed to providing a fully accessible environment, which values and includes all pupils, staff, parents and visitors regardless of their education, physical, sensory, social, spiritual, emotional and cultural needs. We are committed to challenging negative attitudes about disability and accessibility, and to developing a culture of awareness, tolerance and inclusion.

Click here for more details on our school's physical accessibility.

You can read about how our school curriculum caters to SEND learners here.

We reflect and represent diverse perspectives throughout our curriculum through our choice of topics, reading materials and trips out into the community.

Specific examples of how we enhance pupils' understanding and respect for different faiths and beliefs include:

• Through religious education and other lessons where we might learn about other cultures – for example in English through fiction and in art when we consider cultures from other parts of the world.
• In depth study during community themed weeks, where we celebrate and enjoy learning about the differences between countries and cultures around the world.

We want to reflect and represent diverse perspectives across our organisation because we know that doing so will make us stronger, more connected and enhance our pupils' education.

Ark is an equal opportunity employer. Applications from individuals are encouraged regardless of age, disability, sex, gender reassignment, sexual orientation, pregnancy and maternity, race, religion or belief and marriage and civil partnerships.