Since the MacPherson report on the Stephen Lawrence inquiry was published in 1999 it has been the responsibility of all local education authorities and Early Years Development and Childcare Partnerships to promote and maintain equality pertaining to race.
The MacPherson report stresses that education has a fundamental role to play in eradicating racism and valuing racial diversity.The Learning for All document published last year by the Commission for Racial Equality provides guidance in addressing issues of equality and diversity. The national curriculum for schools, the national standards for under-eights daycare in England and the early learning goals all attempt to take into account the issues relating to race equality.
Most practitioners are aware of the importance of promoting equality but have difficulties in knowing where to begin. The programme of learning that is available is often prescriptive and doesn't suggest practical ways to promote an environment where racial equality and diversity can be reflected.
This particular area of work is the way forward in preventing disaffection and raising self-esteem and a sense of achievement, which in turn will raise educational standards. The most vulnerable group is African-Caribbean boys, who are much more likely to be excluded from school.
Equal opportunities policy should be accessible, fully understood by all practitioners, monitored and reviewed periodically. A well-written policy ensures it is a 'working document' enabling practitioners to work effectively as a team, to work in partnership with parents and carers and the wider community. The policy should help to promote racial equality and ensure good practice is maintained and monitored at all levels.
The Aswan Learning Centre can be contacted on 020 8239 1141 or e-mail aswan@netlineuk.net
