PUPIL-RUN EDI GROUPS

In this edition we wanted to report on the Pupil Groups at Canford. Our EDI strategy here has been to have an approach that seeks to involve the whole community. We are keen for pupils to purposefully engage with the ever-changing nature of the world around them. One way in which pupils have been able to demonstrate gracious leadership is through running pupilled support groups. The EDI groups meet informally at break times or after school to discuss common or shared issues. They seek to raise awareness of the differences within our community and to help ensure Canford is an inclusive and welcoming community for all.

Rainbow Alliance

This group of pupils meets to help ensure that Canford is a safe, inclusive and comfortable space for those who are allies or members of the LGBTQIA+ community. Members of the group have organised tutor time activities. They are identifiable by the pride badges they wear on their blazers. These badges are also worn by key staff who are happy to be spoken to about LGBTQIA+ issues. This group have presented in assembly on the importance of allyship. Next, they plan to run a House competition which involves pupils creating a pride flag from art materials. These will be displayed as part of Pride month at Canford. We have organised a themed lunch based on a menu inspired by LGBTQIA+ chefs and have OC Elle Turner coming to speak about setting up her company The Queer Campfire.

Open Minded

This self-named group supports those who consider themselves neurodiverse. This umbrella term includes those who have ASC (Autistic Spectrum Condition), ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder), dyslexia or dyscalculia. It also welcomes those with a physical or hidden disability. This group meets to discuss how their neurodiversity can impact upon their studies. They share common solutions to problems. This group is supported by the Support for Learning team who often work one-to-one with some of its members. The group have also held an assembly this year to raise awareness of neurodiversity and to explain to any pupil that they may be eligible for further support, particularly in examinations.

Challenge Sexism

This group of male and female pupils have been working to develop their understanding of this societal issue. The group have worked with Bold Voices and attended a number of online talks to fully consider the impact of sexist language, figures such as Andrew Tate and micro aggressive behaviours. The group produced a poster campaign to help challenge sexism at Canford. Next, they plan to invite in female OCs who work in male dominated fields, or male OCs who work in female dominated fields, to come and share their experiences.

Bbmc

This is a student support group for racially minoritised communities at Canford. The group meets once a halfterm with Jemma Roye, the founder of Let’s Start a Conversation. BBMC stands for Beautiful Black Mixed Heritage Children. The working group aims to create a more inclusive and equitable environment at the school while providing a safe space for black and mixed heritage children to share their experiences. The group has championed a book of the month for all pupils to read. This is displayed in the library. The group has run an assembly in which they raised the awareness with the whole school of the issue of racism and discussed the importance of allyship. Next, they plan to organise pupil group meetings in between Jemma’s sessions.