Inclusion & diversity
“We have more in common than that which divides us.” Jo Cox
How our young people see themselves, each other and the world around them is shaped by what they learn about here at school. In order to prepare our students for life in modern Britain, we must support them to understand diversity and celebrate difference. It is a sad fact that discrimination and intolerance exist in our wider community; we want our students to challenge these attitudes and to embody our values of kindness and respect. We are committed to providing our students with opportunities to explore and appreciate more fully the range of different faiths and cultures represented beyond their rural environment. We want our young people to develop accepting attitudes towards those who are different to them, and feel proud of the things that make them different themselves.
An Inclusive Curriculum
All subject areas support our commitment to inclusion and diversity; it is vital that our curriculum reflects modern Britain. We believe it is important that all pupils feel included in and represented by our curriculum; the evidence shows that this makes them much more likely to engage with their learning, achieve better and have positive mental health.
Diverse and Inclusive Enrichment
Staff and Student Ambassadors
We have a team of staff and student ambassadors whose job it is to support our commitment to being a truly inclusive school. These teams advise Heads of Department on their curriculum choices, prepare form time activities and lead assemblies on all areas of inclusion and diversity.
Our LGBTQ+ Ambassadors
Mrs Brown (English Teacher) and Mrs Hamilton (Librarian)
Our Racial Equality Ambassadors
Mr Hopkins (Head of Art)
Our Amnesty International group and Debate Club also offer students the opportunity to explore issues around inclusivity and diversity as well as their own identity and place in the world.
Ryedale School is also proud to be part of the annual York Pride parade. Our staff and student group is led by Mrs Brown.
For parents:
If you would like to learn more about any of the aspects of inclusivity and diversity, these links offer advice, resources and guidance.
Celebrating Diversity
https://www.britishcouncil.org/voices-magazine/nine-ways-celebrate-diversity
LGBTQ+
https://www.stonewall.org.uk/help-and-advice
Stonewall Coming Out: Guidance for Parents
https://www.stonewall.org.uk/help-advice/coming-out/coming-out-advice-and-guidance-parents
Race Discrimination
https://www.nspcc.org.uk/globalassets/documents/race-and-racism/unicef-anti-racism-resource-pack.pdf
https://www.equalityhumanrights.com/en/advice-and-guidance/race-discrimination
