The Isle of Ely Primary School, part of Active Learning Trust, is proud to have been awarded the Silver Level RACE (Race and Conscious Equality) Chartermark.
The award is a significant milestone in the school’s journey towards championing race equality within an inclusive school community.
The Charter Mark, developed by SSAT (Schools, Students and Teachers network) and Fig Tree International, recognises schools which wish to demonstrate their commitment to action and improvement in relation to race equality in all aspects of their work as educators, employers and community leaders.
By achieving the Silver Level Chartermark, Isle of Ely Primary School has shown that it not only recognises the importance of equality but is committed to real, sustainable progress in the years to come.
Since earning the Bronze Level award in July 2022, the school has conducted a comprehensive review of its practices as well as strengthening initiatives already in place. The result has been a strengthened culture of inclusivity at the school – driven by ongoing training and development for staff, targeted interventions to support students from marginalised backgrounds, and the creation of partnerships with community organisations.
Looking ahead, the school remains committed to ongoing training, development, and engagement with staff, students, and the wider community, ensuring that race equality and conscious inclusivity remains central to its mission moving forward.
The Isle of Ely Primary School has only recently celebrated its tenth anniversary together with the whole school community. Pupils and staff shared memories, the school choir sang and parents, children and staff enjoyed cupcakes together.
Bryony Surtees, Headteacher at Isle of Ely Primary School, expressed her pride in the school’s achievements: "We are very proud of the work that we have done to champion equality and inclusivity at the school, and we are pleased that this has been recognised with our Race Chartermark Silver Award. This is a reflection of the dedication of our staff, students, and wider school community in creating a positive, inclusive environment where everyone is equally valued."
Active Learning Trust CEO, Lynsey Holzer, added: “Congratulations to the entire Isle of Ely community for their dedication to making lasting, meaningful progress towards a more equitable future for all. We are incredibly proud of them for earning the Silver RACE Chartermark. Their proactive approach sets a powerful example for others across the Trust.”