Bedford Academy is committed to providing equal opportunities for all.

Equality Award

Bedford Academy was the first school to be recognised as an Equality Champion in Bedfordshire. This was awarded following the external assessment of a portfolio of evidence collected over two years. Since the award Bedford Academy continues to work hard in this area.

Equality Statement

Bedford Academy encourages, celebrates and values the diversity of all our community. We actively promote the principle of equality for all. We aim to ensure that everyone within our community is treated fairly, with respect and dignity. We seek to eliminate any form of inequality, bullying or discrimination.

Our General Equality Duty

In October 2010, the new Equality Act introduced a Public Sector Duty, which requires the Academy to have due regard to the need to:

• Eliminate unlawful discrimination, harassment and victimisation.
• Advance equality of opportunity between people who share a protected characteristic and those who do not.
• Foster good relations between people who share a protected characteristic and those who do not.

Protected Characteristics

There are nine protected characteristics under the Equality Act: age, disability, gender reassignment, marriage and civil partnership, pregnancy and maternity, race, religion or belief, sex and sexual orientation.

Equality Objectives

The Academy is required to establish at least one equality objective to address any areas of inequality, or possible inequality, identified as part of our analysis. These are available for you to download or view below.