'The EYFS seeks to provide Equality of opportunity and anti-discriminatory practice, ensuring that every child is included & supported.' (EYFS 2012)

We aim to treat each individual as a person in their own right, with equal rights and responsibilities to any other individual, whether they are an adult or a child. We acknowledge that, in society, discrimination does occur and that where discrimination is encountered it will be challenged. We can reassure that any individuals (children, staff and parents) who are discriminated against will receive the full support of the setting.
We do not tolerate discrimination on the grounds of gender, race, age, social groups, religion, colour, creed, disability, special educational needs, language, family structure, ethnic or national origin, marital status, sexuality or political beliefs in this nursery.
If anyone believes that this policy is not being complied with, they should bring it to the attention of the nursery manager at the earliest opportunity.

We aim to encourage a positive attitude and behaviour by:

• Displaying positive role models through toys and imaginary play.
• Planning activities that promote non-stereotyped images.
• Selecting books, computer programmes and visual images that promote positive images of gender.
• Encouraging children to join in activities such as dressing up, art and craft and music which can show a diverse number of different cultures.
• Celebrating all cultural and religious festivals of the children & staff in the Nursery.
• Regularly reviewing childcare practice to ensure policy is effective and successful.

We also aim to ensure that all staff are recruited, trained and promoted on the basis of their ability to do the job required. No applicant will be ruled out or receive any less/more favourable treatment due to age, gender, sexuality, race, religion, colour or cultural or national origin.

NURSERY

We believe that all children have the right to early years care and education; no child will be discriminated against for whatever reason. Wherever possible a child who is disabled or has any special need will be considered for a place depending on that child's individual circumstances and the ability of the nursery to meet those needs.
We aim to ensure that all projects, activities; outings and services are accessible to all groups and individuals in the community within the age group, encouraging all children to join in with all activities.
We offer access to disabled people and can produce material, policies and procedures in relevant language and media.

RECRUITMENT

We aim, by recruitment, to ensure that the staff reflects the community. We will advertise our vacancies as widely as possible.
The management who carry out the selection process will be committed to the equal opportunities policy set out in this document. All applicants will be are given the same application form and asked the same interview questions. No questions will be asked in the application forms or at interview that could discriminate. The management use a short listing grid to decide which candidate is the most suitable for the position. The management will be happy to discuss any reasons why the applicant was unsuccessful.

STAFF

All staff are expected to challenge any language, actions, behaviour or attitudes which are discriminatory or oppressive. Staff are also expected to co-operate with this and other policies and to take part in staff training.

STAFF TRAINING

The nursery aims to provide equal opportunity training at induction and follow up sessions. We will also, where possible, have staff training using outside agencies.

Our policy is written in conjunction with government legislation & guidance such as the Equalities Act 2010 and the Code of Practice 2001.