Protected Characteristics

Protected Characteristics are the qualities or traits that are legally safeguarded under the Equality Act 2010 to ensure everyone is treated fairly and without discrimination. There are nine Protected Characteristics: age, disability, gender reassignment, marriage and civil partnership, pregnancy and maternity, race, religion or belief, sex, and sexual orientation. These protections help prevent unfair treatment in areas like education, work, and public life, ensuring that everyone has equal opportunities and is respected for who they are.

At Benfield, we believe that everyone deserves respect, fairness, and the opportunity to thrive. Our PSHE curriculum is designed to ensure students understand Protected Characteristics, as outlined in the Equality Act 2010, and the importance of treating people with dignity, regardless of their background, identity, or beliefs.

Through a combination of lessons, assemblies, discussions, and real-world case studies, we help students explore prejudice, discrimination, and the impact of laws designed to protect individuals. Our goal is to equip students with the knowledge and confidence to stand up against injustice and contribute to a more inclusive society.

How We Explore Protected Characteristics Across Year Groups?

Each year, students deepen their understanding of diversity, discrimination, and equality, moving from personal awareness to wider societal issues:

Year 7 – Understanding Ourselves & Others

• Learning about personal identity, differences, and respecting others.
• Exploring Protected Characteristics and Why They Matter.
• Recognising how laws protect individuals from discrimination.

Year 8 – The Impact of Discrimination

Focusing on human rights and the effects of prejudice.

Exploring race, disability, and religion—how discrimination affects individuals and communities.

Discussing real-world examples of intolerance and the fight for equality.

Year 9 – Hate Crimes & Extremism

Investigating how hate crimes target people based on Protected Characteristics.

Case study: LGBTQ+ discrimination—exploring historical and modern-day challenges.

Understanding extremism and the dangers of intolerance in society.

Year 10 – Equality in Law & Society

Examining legal protections against discrimination, including the Equality Act 2010.

Looking at how the UK justice system upholds equality.

Exploring case studies of legal battles and societal changes.

Year 11 – Britain as a Diverse Society

Understanding the UK as a “cooking pot” of different cultures, identities, and backgrounds.

Exploring how laws, institutions, and communities promote inclusivity.

Discussing students’ role in shaping a fairer society.

This progression ensures that by the time students leave Benfield, they have a strong understanding of diversity, equality, and the importance of standing against discrimination.

Beyond the Classroom: How We Embed Equality Across School Life

PSHE Lessons – A structured curriculum that challenges stereotypes, tackles discrimination and promotes inclusion.

Religious Education (RE) – Following the Newcastle SACRE syllabus, we explore faith, ethics, and how different religions promote equality and human rights.

Careers & The Workplace – Discussions on diversity in employment, leadership roles, and ensuring equal opportunities.

Assemblies & Form Time – Covering real-life issues, student-led discussions, and guest speakers sharing lived experiences.

Cultural & Community Engagement – Events, awareness campaigns, and partnerships with local organisations to celebrate diversity and promote understanding.

Ensuring All Students Feel Supported

• Safe Spaces for Discussion – Small group sessions for students who want to explore topics in a comfortable environment.
• Adapted Resources – Ensuring every student can access and engage with these important conversations.
• Pastoral Support – Dedicated staff providing guidance and extra support where needed.

Student, Parent & Staff Involvement

Students – Encouraged to lead projects, share experiences, and actively challenge discrimination.

Parents & Carers Opportunities to engage in school discussions and offer feedback on inclusion efforts.

Staff – Ongoing training to ensure meaningful and informed discussions on equality, respect, and diversity.

At Benfield, we are proud to create a school culture that values every individual. By embedding respect, inclusion, and equality into everything we do, we prepare students to contribute positively to their communities and society as a whole.