NGA outlines new commitments for action on equality, diversity and inclusion in education

Organisations working in the education sector, including NGA, have outlined new commitments for action, demonstrating how they will play their part in improving equality, diversity and inclusion within education.

The ‘statement of action’ signed by 14 key sector bodies and National Associations outlines the collective and individual commitments to help improve equity and diversity in education.

The statement of action states that
“by being clear and transparent about our actions, we can give confidence to pupils, families, staff, governors and leaders that we are learning, listening and acting on their concerns and ambitions for equality, diversity and inclusion.”

Over the course of 2022–2023, NGA is committed to:

Seek first hand experiences and showcase success stories in relation to EDI.
Continue to thread EDI through our suite of guidance and e-learning for governing boards and to support governors, trustees and governance professionals in understanding EDI and its effects through our full range of resources.
Update the annual data from our survey on the demographic of governance volunteers and put into place appropriate actions.

The organisations have also called for more support from government in achieving these aims, saying: “Discrimination and inequality continue to exist, and our organisations want to play a role in actively addressing this within the educational sector. It matters for the health, well-being and futures of our members, their staff and the pupils and communities that they serve.

“But while a sector-wide approach is essential if we are to see true progress in this area, this really must be matched by effective support from Government. If the Department for Education is serious about improving recruitment and retention of educational professionals from a diverse range of backgrounds, then it is vital that this is embedded across all facets of its work and is backed by appropriate funding.

“We call on the Secretary of State for Education to make equality, diversity and inclusion one of their key priorities – and outline the Department’s own commitments towards improving equality, diversity and inclusion in education.”

Emma Knights and Emma Balchin, co-chief executives, NGA, said:
“Governing boards have an important role in ensuring a culture of equality, diversity and inclusion in their schools and trusts. Through the decisions they make and the scrutiny and support they give, they can drive significant progress and impact for leaders, staff and pupils.
NGA will continue to act in creating the expectation and resources for boards to develop in their composition and culture and in their role of encouraging diversity and ensuring equality throughout their organisation.”

The organisations that are signatories to this statement are: