EQUAL OPPORTUNITIES

Policy Statement

I respect and value the diversity of individuals and communities in our society, and provide a welcoming atmosphere for all families and children in my care. All children in my setting receive the same care and learning opportunities, regardless of background or ability.

I work in partnership with parents from the outset to understand and cater for the needs of their child. I will meet with you before each placement starts to discuss in depth your child, your beliefs and values, and set out a plan together around the individual needs of your child.

Procedure

All children in my care are given the opportunity to play with all the toys (subject to health and safety with children under 3 toys).

I promote the fundamental British Values by ensuring that all children in my care:

Are encouraged to accept & appreciate their own and others views

Have an understanding of the basic rules and the consequences of not adhering to them

Are encouraged to express their feelings & get involved in discussions

Are encouraged to make friendships with mutual respect & tolerance

I provide educational activities that actively promote equality and diversity to help the children in my care value and respect themselves and others. We will learn about and celebrate different religious and faith festivals so that no child is excluded and that we have a greater understanding of our multi-cultural society. Children in my care have access to a range of toys and resources which reflect people from different cultures, races, religions and abilities.

I acknowledge that no two children are the same and I believe that every child should be treated fairly; this applies no matter what they think or say, what type of family they come from, what language they speak, what their parents do, whether they are girls or boys, rich or poor. All children in my setting will be listened to and valued and respected.

No child in my care will be discriminated against in anyway. I act in accordance with all relevant equality legislation and guidelines relating to race, culture, gender, disability or religion. I will challenge any remarks that I feel are inappropriate and take appropriate actions.

The legal framework for my practice is:

Children Acts 2004

Equality Act 2010

UN Convention of the Rights of the Child 1989

Human Rights Act 1998

I encourage the children in my care to learn more about their own culture and religions and those of the other children. We do this in a fun way through sharing books, colouring sheets, cooking and eating food from around the world and celebrating special festivals.

I encourage the children to develop a healthy respect of each other’s differences and to value everyone as an individual.

I encourage parents to share with us any festivals, special occasions or artefacts which may enhance the children’s learning and understanding.

Ultimately, I will help all children in my care feel good about themselves and others by celebrating the differences that make us all unique.