The Coalition for Racial Equality and Rights (CRER) has teamed up with respectme to provide support for teachers in dealing with racist incidents
An equality charity has launched a new guide which aims to tackle racism in schools.
The Coalition for Racial Equality and Rights (CRER) and respectme, Scotland’s national anti-bullying service, have joined forces to publish a new guide for teachers on how to effectively address racism in schools.
The guide aims to raise awareness about how racism affects minority ethnic children and young people, and offers practical steps for teachers to prevent racist bullying and address incidents effectively. It includes advice on addressing negative language and messaging, information on creating inclusive learning environments and suggestions on how to promote race equality through the curriculum.
CRER’s executive director, Jatin Haria, said: “Tackling racism in schools is vital for the safety and wellbeing of minority ethnic pupils, however without the right support, some teachers may find it daunting to approach these issues. We hope that this publication helps to build confidence and leads to strong, consistent approaches in our schools.”
Development of the resource was funded by Scottish Government in line with commitments to tackle prejudice-based bullying made in its Race Equality Framework 2016-2030 and in Respect for All, the national approach to anti-bullying for Scotland’s children and young people.
respectme’s service director, Katie Ferguson, said: “While prejudice in our society is not limited to schools, educators play a vital role in helping to challenge prejudiced views and harness social change.
“By exploring how racism can be effectively addressed, we hope this resource will help educators take appropriate steps to create safe and inclusive environments in our schools where every child is respected and realises their right to live free from bullying.”
Education Scotland chief executive Gayle Gorman welcomed the publication: “There is no place for racism of any kind in our schools, and bullying is unacceptable in any form,” she said.
“I congratulate the authors of this teachers’ resource for highlighting the importance of early intervention and prevention in cases of racist bullying.”
The new resource follows on from publication of an anti-bullying resource for teachers aimed at challenging homophobia, biphobia and transphobia, developed by respectme and LGBT Youth Scotland last year.
