Schools
Primary Schools
Increasingly in the UK, families are becoming more diverse in their makeup and the traditional family setup increasingly does not reflect every child's home life. 'Every Child Matters' dictates that schools ensure all children are safe and healthy, are able to make a positive contribution and feel a sense of achievement. Children with non-traditional families are at risk of feeling excluded and not learning effectively if the school environment does not celebrate their unique backgrounds.
Diversity Role Models provides a service to primary schools that helps them address this important and sensitive topic. Our interactive programme covers PSHE Key Stage 1 and 2 objectives around developing good relationships and respecting the differences between people.
Download the key stage one and two objectives.
What does a Diversity Role Models workshop involve?
Diversity Role Models attend classes from years 1-6 to talk about different families. Topics range from adoption, to step-families and children with same sex parents.
Download a list of recommended books for Primary schools.
We explore reading materials which consider diversity issues as advised by Stonewall. This encourages students to celebrate the differences and similarities in and amongst their peers.
Key Stage 1
A typical session will:
- explore the differences that exist within family set-ups (single parents, dual-heritage, adoption) using visual aids
- discuss diversity and different families using one of the age appropriate and curriculum-focused books as listed above (DRM can provide these books for use within the session if the school does not have access, however it is strongly advised that these books are purchased to ensure continuity of learning after our visits)
Key Stage 2
A typical session will:
- explore different families in a similar manner to KS1 (books, visual aids and discussions)
- delve further into the impact of bullying and the importance of students taking responsibility for their school environment
- discuss gender stereotypes, homophobic vocabulary and behaviours which negatively impact on a child's sense of wellbeing and ability to learn
We encourage children to be respectful of each other's individual differences and to act responsibly when they encounter bullying.
Our workshops reflect the school's policies and are prepared in consultation with the Senior Management Team. The programme is specifically designed to empower children to deal with bullying in a positive way.
