EQUITY , DIVERSITY AND INCLUSION
The work of the steering group can be divided into two main categories : physical changes and educational reforms . All discussions , potential actions and results are accessible to students on the EDI Firefly page , alongside our EDI policy . This is to ensure transparency for those who will benefit from our actions .
In terms of physical changes within the school , a number of individual toilets have been designated and labelled gender neutral . An issue raised by the faith working group is that there are no spaces for religious adoration . Following extensive discussions , we encountered various barriers , but encourage students to contact the group should they wish to book a room . Following other suggestions from the faith group , we have worked to make those of faith more comfortable . This is through open events on faith , and the incorporation of faith into the Middle School Core Critical Thinking curriculum .
In today ’ s world , recognising and celebrating diversity has become ever more important .
By creating a positive and inclusive environment through promoting EDI , dialogue and discussion can be initiated , challenging biases and encouraging deeper thinking . This will prepare students to demonstrate tolerance and appreciation in the real world . Sevenoaks has been a pioneer in creating and implementing policies , and throughout this year , the EDI steering group has gathered together , with members representing the entire school strata . From the minutes of the various working groups ( Diverse Ability , Faith , Gender Equality , Proud and Race ), we aim to create solutions to the issues that they identify .
For educational changes , a major action has been the whole school EDI audit . Students and staff were asked to complete an anonymous survey , the results of which were sent to an external organisation . Going into the next academic year , the school will work with this organisation to see how they can implement various policies . For staff , training continues to tackle microaggressions and improve language awareness . This was an issue raised by Proud . The steering group is working to set expectations of school culture regarding EDI with new students . Discussions are in place for induction packages or preliminary reading .
Sevenoaks School ’ s EDI work is a commendable example of how a community can work together to strive for greater equity , diversity and inclusion . By fostering awareness , representation and inclusivity , we are working to play our part in creating a more inclusive and equitable society .
Tess Hunter and Carolyn Zhang , Lower Sixth
118 WELLBEING