Schools which encourage pupils to value everyone and celebrate the differences between people and cultures will be honoured at a special event this week.
At the event, held at the Guildhall, Bath, on Thursday 28th June, the Council will award three schools from the area with the Inclusion Quality Mark, bringing the total number of schools in the area with this stamp of approval to 36.
The Inclusion Quality Mark is awarded to schools which are particularly effective in helping pupils to see that people can be different and that everyone should be valued and treated equally. This includes everything from learning about different cultures and religions to initiatives that help to prevent bullying.
The three schools set to receive the award are:
- Oldfield Park Junior School, Bath
- St. John’s C. of E. Primary School, Midsomer Norton
- Widcombe C. of E. Junior School, Bath
Councillor Nathan Hartley (Lib-Dem, Peasedown), Deputy Leader of the Council and Cabinet Member for Early Years, Children and Youth, will present certificates to the schools.
Cllr Hartley said: “We are extremely proud of everyone involved in initiatives designed to celebrate the diversity of our vibrant communities. The Inclusion Quality Mark recognises the valuable work our schools do in helping Bath & North East Somerset Council to ensure that children and young people enjoy their childhood and are prepared for adult life.”
Around 120 children are expected to attend the event along with their parents, teachers and governors from the schools. Representatives from the three schools will also take part in presentations based on the inclusive theme, featuring songs, djembe drumming and a dance routine.
Bath & North East Somerset Council supports all schools taking part in the scheme and gives advice on how schools can meet the requirements of the award, which has a three year life span.
Four schools which have renewed their Inclusion Quality Mark will also be at the event: Chandag Junior School, Keynsham; Farrington Gurney C. of E. Primary School; Marksbury C. of E. Primary School and St. Mary’s Catholic Primary School, Bath.
The Chairman of Bath & North East Somerset Council, Councillor Rob Appleyard will present all seven schools with brass and silver plaques.
Cllr Appleyard said: “I am delighted to present these awards to the schools in recognition of their commitment to ensuring that our children and young people become ambassadors for their communities.”
Schools wishing to find out how they can work towards the Inclusion Quality Awards should visit www.bathnes.gov.uk/InclusionQualityMark, email [email protected] or call 01225 394492.
