1. Equality and Diversity 4FD507
Children and Young Peoples Services
Teaching Lecturer – Natalie Brown

2. Aims of the session: Introduce the module
To look at what we already know
To look at the Module Handbook.
Discuss the requirements of the learning outcomes.
Consider Equality and diversity in relation to practice.

3. Learning outcomes By the end of this unit you will be able to:
Demonstrate an understanding of equality and diversity as a key approach to policy and working practices within Children’s and Young People’s Services.
Implement and evaluate work-based provision that promotes equality and diversity.

4. Areas of Study We will discuss:
Current legislation
Strategies for providing a diverse workforce
The impact of the following will be explored:
Discriminatory language
Related terminology,
Prejudice and stereotypical images
Attitudes about children and young people
How anti-discriminatory provision can/cannot provide equality of access and opportunity to services
Ways to celebrate diversity

5. Group activity – What do you already know?
What does the term equality and diversity mean to you?
How can it be planned and seen in practice?
How does it feel?

6. Key elements Equality Diversity Discrimination Stereotypes
A clear definition of all four will help you with the assignment and aid your current practice.

7. Equality What do we mean by equality?
How society identifies us and treats us - in terms of gender, race, disability, age, social class, sexuality and religion – this can affect and shape our lives.
How can we ensure we treat everyone equally or “fairly” within practice?
In pairs discuss your current practice and how you ensure equality.

8. Diversity How do we define Diversity? In terms of practice consider:
Should we be talking about difference?
Do children notice difference?
Should we be drawing attention to difference?
As a society we are starting to embrace the theory behind celebrating diversity, how does this work in practice?

9. Diversity continued…
‘Diversity helps us to think about and embrace the wide range of people in our world.’ Bruce (2006) Pg 128
‘Children today are growing up in a multi cultural environment: this diverse society should be reflected in Early years settings.’ Macleod-Brudenell (2008) Pg 316

10. Discrimination What is discrimination:
Is it - being treating differently because of prejudice?
This can be either positive or negative. You need to understand how discrimination can impact on individuals’ lives. This will enable you to to prevent potential discrimination within teaching and learning situations. It will also help you to ensure that you are confident in dealing with discrimination issues if and when they arise

11. Discrimination can be a result of:
Stereotyping
Making assumptions
Patronising
Humiliating People
Disrespecting People
Taking some people less seriously
Prejudice

12. Discussion
Have you ever had to challenge people or children who discriminate?
How have/ would you do this?
When should you challenge discrimination?

13. Stereotypes What is a stereotype? How do you define it?
Stereotypes often lead to unfair discrimination and persecution when the person being stereotyped is disadvantaged or seen in an unfavourable way.

14. Group activity Where do stereotypes originate?
What does stereotyping mean to you?
What examples have you seen of stereotyping?

15. Examples of stereotypes
All teenage pregnancies are unwanted/accidents/single mums.
Teachers are always right.
Black people can run fast.
Dumb blondes
Groups of teenagers = gangs who cause trouble

16. Prejudice leads to discrimination
Where prejudices lurk, stereotypes are seldom far behind.
The test of courage comes when we are in the minority. The test of tolerance comes when we are in the majority.
Judge me all you want, just keep the verdict to yourself.
Judgements prevent us from seeing the good that lies behind the appearances.

17. Social Stereotypes that Underpin Prejudice
Perceptions of stereotypes about different groups show that prejudice can take a patronising form.
Older and disabled people are viewed as warm but not competent.
Compared with men, women are less likely to be viewed as economically successful.
Stereotypes can also be more ‘hostile’
Muslim people are viewed as cold and as competing for resources.

18. Language The connotations and significance of words changes over time.
Some words that were once widely used are no longer acceptable.
Why?
Any examples?

19. Human rights What are your rights?
What are the rights of the children and young people in your setting?
What are the rights of disabled children and young people?

20. Why is equality and diversity important?
Because we live in an increasingly diverse society and need to be able to respond appropriately and sensitively to meet everyone’s needs.
How can we use the diversity of society to improve our practice?

21. The two aspects of the assignment
An essay demonstrates an understanding of equality and diversity as a key approach to policy and working practices within Children’s and Young People’s Services (L01).
An audit of provision is carried out and reflected upon in a report, from which a work-based activity that promotes equality and diversity of provision or service is planned, implemented and evaluated (L02).

22. Assignment advice Learning Outcome 1
You will have the opportunity to demonstrate your understanding of equality and diversity as a key approach to policy and practice within your setting.
Reference can be made to current legislation i.e. Equal Pay Act (1975), Disability Discrimination Act (1995), Sex Discrimination Act (1975) to support your discussion.

23. Continued… Learning Outcome 2
In your Audit of Provision you will look at an area of your practice in light of your understanding of equality and diversity. Then show how practice could be developed to address the issues raised.
Examples may include:
Parental involvement for EAL parents
Mobility for wheelchair users
Men in childcare
Support for children with additional needs
Stereotypical attitudes and prejudice

24. For next weeks session – Directed study
Read the PowerPoint regarding how to carryout an audit available on LearnNet.
Go into your setting/placement and consider what area would be best placed for you to undertake your activity and your target area for the audit.
Get a copy of your settings equality and diversity policy

25. For next weeks session – Directed reading task
Search and read relevant literature
Collect and bring in definitions for the following terms:-
Equality
Diversity
Discrimination
Stereotyping
Prejudice
(Remember to keep references as you go along)

26. References
Bruce, T (2006) Early Childhood, guide for students, London, Sage
Macleod-Brudenell. I and Kay. J (2008) Advanced Early Years, second edition, Heinemann, Essex