Under the Equality Act 2010, protected characteristics are specific attributes or traits that form part of a person's identity that are legally safeguarded against unlawful discrimination (treating someone 'less favourably' than someone else). 

The nine protected characteristics are age, disability, gender reassignment, marriage and civil partnership, pregnancy and maternity, race, religion or belief, sex, and sexual orientation.  They are shown in the diagram below.  Please click on the diagram to open a PDF version of it. 
 

In September 2020, Ofsted published guidance for schools on teaching the protected characteristics in school, with the explanation that it is important that all children have an understanding of the world they are growing up in, having learned how to live alongside, and show respect for, a diverse range of people. When schools undergo Ofsted inspections, they are assessed on how well they equip children to do this.

At Woodlea Primary School, teaching about protected characteristics is embedded throughout the curriculum and school life.  Within the whole school, we explicitly discuss protected characteristics in assemblies, ensuring pupils understand the importance of respect, diversity, and inclusion. Whole-school assemblies and News Assembly regularly focus on themes such as equality and fairness, helping children recognise and challenge discrimination. Celebration months and weeks, such as Black History Month and International Women's Day, provide opportunities to explore different aspects of identity and representation. Additionally, the SCARF (Safety, Caring, Achievement, Resilience and Friendship) PSHE (Personal, Social, Health and Economic) programme reinforces these values through lessons across different year groups in an age-appropriate way. For example, in Year 1, the "Being Me" lesson promotes self-identity and respect for differences, while in Year 3, "Valuing Difference" explores topics like prejudice and inclusion. In Year 5, "Rights and Responsibilities" teaches about fairness and equality, encouraging pupils to consider the impact of discrimination.

Through these approaches, Woodlea Primary School fosters an inclusive environment where every child feels valued and respected.