The Equality Act came into force in 2010 to protect everyone, including children and young people, from discrimination and to advance equality and opportunity for all. It protects people against discrimination, harassment and victimisation in relation to housing, education, the provision of services, work and other areas of public life. It prohibits discrimination based on the following characteristics, usually referred to as ‘protected characteristics’:

• Age
• Disability
• Gender reassignment
• Marriage and civil partnership
• Pregnancy and maternity
• Race
• Religion or belief
• Gender
• Sexual orientation

Under Section 149 of the Act, schools have a duty to take active steps to eliminate discrimination and to take positive actions to promote equality.

At Meath Green Infant School, we recognise how important it is that all children gain an understanding of the world that they are growing up in. We aim to create a learning environment that promotes equality and diversity by answering children's questions when they arise and by promoting respect amongst each other.