DEI
Our Commitment to Diversity, Equality and Inclusion (DEI)
At The Downs School, we are proud to be a community that actively promotes diversity, equality and inclusion across all aspects of school life. These principles are reflected in our CREARCI values: Courage, Responsibility, Equality, Ambition, Resilience, Creativity and Integrity.
We aim to create an environment where every student feels respected, valued and supported to reach their full potential. Our responsibility is not only to ensure fairness within school but also to prepare our students for life in a diverse society. We encourage open-mindedness, respectful discussion and an understanding of different backgrounds and beliefs.
We teach that allyship involves standing alongside others, listening carefully and taking positive action where needed. Through daily interactions, classroom learning, visiting speakers and student-led initiatives, we provide regular opportunities for our pupils to reflect on real-world issues and consider a range of perspectives.
Embedding Inclusion Across School Life
Curriculum
Principles of equality and inclusion are embedded in our curriculum, particularly within Philosophy, Ethics, History, RE and PSHE. These subjects give students the chance to explore themes such as identity, justice, fairness and community, while learning how to think critically and respectfully about complex issues.
Assemblies and Weekly Reflections
Our weekly assemblies and Thought for the Week programme support the development of students’ spiritual, moral, social and cultural understanding. Themes have included allyship, neurodiversity, cultural heritage, kindness and active citizenship.
Student Voice and Leadership
We believe that young people must play a central role in shaping an inclusive school culture. Our Student Council, student-led projects and events such as Diversity Day allow pupils to lead and contribute meaningfully. This includes initiatives introduced by students themselves, such as our Head Girl bringing the BiteBack 2030 campaign into school.
Enrichment and Guest Speakers
Throughout the year, we welcome guest speakers from a wide range of backgrounds. Authors, campaigners, professionals and community leaders visit to share their experiences and perspectives. These sessions help pupils build empathy, challenge assumptions and connect learning to the wider world.
Living Our Values in Action
Our values are made real through the choices we make each day and the projects we support as a school community:
- Eco Club
Led by students, our Eco Club promotes sustainability, environmental awareness and responsibility for future generations. - Charity Fundraising. Led by students, each House has it's own charity and we also support national charities every year.
- Diverse Library Collection
We continue to grow our library with books that reflect a wide range of backgrounds, voices and lived experiences. This ensures every student can both recognise themselves in the stories they read and learn about the lives of others. - BiteBack 2030
Through our involvement with BiteBack 2030, students are learning how to campaign for fairer food systems and improved health outcomes for all young people. This work has been introduced and driven by our Head Girl 2024-2025, and reflects our commitment to student-led change.
Key Activities and Events
| Activity | When | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Diversity Day | Annual | A themed day led by students to explore and celebrate difference. Previous topics have included LGBTQ+ awareness and neurodiversity. |
| Assemblies | Weekly | Exploring values, ethics, DEI and current affairs. |
| Guest Speakers | Throughout the year | Visiting professionals, campaigners and authors offer real-life insights and experiences. |
| Cross-Curricular Day | Summer Term | Activities and workshops centred around culture, inclusion and teamwork. |
| Performing Arts Events | Winter and Summer | Our school productions and concerts include themes and stories from a wide range of cultures and traditions. |
| House Competitions | Monthly | Events that encourage participation, cooperation and a strong sense of belonging across all year groups. |
We continue to learn, reflect and listen as part of our commitment to creating a school culture that is open, inclusive and forward-thinking. Through our shared values and the active involvement of students and staff, we aim to ensure that everyone in our community feels that they belong and can thrive.
Our DEI Lead is Mr Wilson, Deputy Headteacher
