Education organisations outline new commitments for action on equality, diversity and inclusion in education

Organisations working in the education sector have today (Wednesday 27^th September 2023) outlined new commitments for action demonstrating how they will play their part in improving equality, diversity and inclusion within education.

A ‘statement of action’ signed by 14 key sector bodies and National Associations outlines the collective and individual commitments to help improve equity and diversity in education. The statement of action states that “by being clear and transparent about our actions, we can give confidence to pupils, families, staff, governors and leaders that we are learning, listening and acting on their concerns and ambitions for equality, diversity and inclusion.”

The organisations have also called for more support from government in achieving these aims, saying:

“Discrimination and inequality continue to exist, and our organisations want to play a role in actively addressing this within the educational sector. It matters for the health, well-being and futures of our members, their staff and the pupils and communities that they serve.

“But while a sector-wide approach is essential if we are to see true progress in this area, this really must be matched by effective support from Government. If the Department for Education is serious about improving recruitment and retention of educational professionals from a diverse range of backgrounds, then it is vital that this is embedded across all facets of its work and is backed by appropriate funding.

“We call on the Secretary of State for Education to make equality, diversity and inclusion one of their key priorities – and outline the Department’s own commitments towards improving equality, diversity and inclusion in education.”

The organisations that are signatories to this statement are:

• All-in Education
• Ambition Institute
• Association of School and College Leaders (ASCL)
• Chartered College of Teaching
• Confederation of School Trusts (CST)
• DisabilityEdUK
• Independent Schools Council (ISC)
• Institute of School Business Leadership (ISBL)
• Maternity Teacher Paternity Teacher Project
• NAHT, the school leaders’ union
• National Governance Association (NGA)
• Oasis Community Learning
• Teach First
• WomenEd

The Statement of Action can be read in full here.