Aims 

We are a welcoming school with belonging at the core of what we do: honesty, co-operation and mutual respect for others are modelled and encouraged. We are inclusive and celebrate diversity. Our broad, balanced, and appropriate curriculum provides a sense of belonging for all pupils to maximise their potential regardless of age, sex, sexual orientation, race, colour, religion, or disability. We promote positive relationships with parents, governors, and members of the wider community. 

At Rainham Mark Grammar School, we challenge any form of discrimination and actively promote harmonious relations in all areas of school life. Students, staff, and parents can feel confident that any incidents will be dealt with appropriately. We seek to remove any barriers to access, participation, progression, attainment, and achievement.  

Our curriculum is designed with an aspiration that RMGS students understand the world around them and develop respect for others. We want our students to see themselves in our curriculum and have consciously worked to developed units of work that highlight and develop equality, diversity and inclusion.  

Principles 

To achieve the ethos and aims set out above, we follow key principles underpinned by our belief in the importance of belonging: 

• Inclusive practice, care and sensitivity are intrinsic to all our interactions to promote equality of opportunity. 

• We foster and promote positive attitudes and relationships and a shared sense of belonging. 

• We recognise and respect difference and challenge prejudice and discrimination. 

• We uphold high expectations of behaviour which demonstrates respect towards all. 

• We use all available information to set suitable learning and professional challenges for all pupils, responding to diverse needs and overcoming potential barriers to learning and progression. 

• We recognise there is always more to learn and plan wider engagement and training to increase our understanding of equality, diversity, and inclusion. 

• We publish and share our policies and impact assessments with the whole community. 

• We ensure we comply with equality legislation. 

To read the school’s Equality Policy, please visit the Policy Documents page 

 

Each year we celebrate  Black History Month with a range of activities across the school led by students and staff. Our students shine when they are devising and then leading BHM assemblies whether the theme be Black Women or Reclaiming the Narrative as their oracy skills and empathy are palpable.  

During October our canteen team with support from our student voice prepared meals from a variety of African and Caribbean cultures for our students and staff to enjoy.   We also like to hold student-led musical events like the Reggae and Ska concert celebrating Music of Caribbean heritage for all staff and students to enjoy.

Reflections on the Middle East

Students showcase their writing skills and understanding of the world in The Mark reflecting the importance of talking about key issues impacting on societies such as the war in Gaza. Debating and empathising form an integral part of our Core RE lessons that are led by our experienced Religious Education and Philosophy teachers. 

Holocaust Memorial Day 

Mrs Wood and Mrs Housden (Head of Humanities) and Mr Slociak (Head of History) always lead the Holocaust Memorial Day assembly for all year groups covering themes like the “Fragility of Freedom" and "For a Better Future." Students reflect on the bravery of everyday people to protect the freedom and rights of others and are a chance for all members of the school community to take stock of the sacrifices that others have made to protect our freedom. 

Diversity Group 

We have an active RMGS Student Diversity Group who work collaboratively with staff to promote diversity and inclusion. Our group selects and leads on key themes throughout the academic year to raise the profile of celebrating difference. They are amazing.