Dwight School in London wins award for excellence and innovation in equality, diversity and inclusion.
Dwight School London is celebrating a recent diversity award from the Independent Schools Association for Excellence and Innovation in Equality, Diversity and Inclusion. The judges considered that Dwight School demonstrated commitment to building an anti-racist culture through a BLM forum and a focus on language, in particular ensuring that attitudes towards and needs of Black and Asian students are met. They were impressed by the way Dwight engaged the school community at a personal level with the issues of Equality, Diversity and Inclusion.
Dwight School’s anti-racism activities saw staff taking part in a range of meaningful and engaging activities throughout the academic year. At the start of the school year, staff were given a book of their choice and during development meetings they explored their experiences of race at school. Staff have also had additional opportunities to engage with a variety of media which has enabled further discussions around themes of race and pedagogy at the school.
Aldaine Wynter, the school’s Global Diversity & Inclusion Coordinator, said: “Dwight has been proactive in developing a solid vision of diversity and inclusion across its schools worldwide. I encourage schools at the beginning of their journey to use a forum as a tool to begin a dialogue about race. It is worth repeating that one size does not fit all, but hosting an event where everyone can voice their opinions without fear will allow any school to begin work on a meaningful action plan.”
Alison Cobbin, Head of the School, said: “It is Dwight School’s global vision which has enabled us to take a leading role in the sector. Our school welcomes and celebrates diversity and we are inclusive in meeting the needs of all children and their families with over 50 nationalities represented. At Dwight School London, no single member of our community is the same. Our differences are what makes us strong. We draw on our diversity of thought, experience and vision to build a space for all. To ignite the spark of genius in every child, we believe everyone should be included.”
A statement on the ISA’s website said: “The ISA Awards 2021 was an excellent opportunity to celebrate the successful outcomes that our members are exceptional at achieving for the pupils in their care. We would like to applaud all our finalists and highly commended schools for their fantastic work, dedication and passion to provide the very best for their school.”
