Disentangling the concept of equality in schools can be a tricky task for those in senior, middle or classroom leadership. This book will unpack ideas of equality, equity, diversity and social justice, providing practitioners and those training to teach with an understanding of equality in order to address educational values and practice. Drawing on a wide range of case studies from schools in England, Wales and Scotland, the authors illustrate the importance of leading for equality with a clear and proactive vision for change.
The authors explore these key areas:
- Socio-economic class
- Gender
- Sexuality
- Ethnicity
- Religion
- Migrant children
- Special learning needs and disabilities
This book will serve as a handy guide for postgraduate and undergraduate students on Education Leadership and Inclusive Education courses.
Industry Reviews
This valuable new book provides an in-depth treatment of equality, drawing on research and literature, and illuminating examples of practice in several UK schools. Jacky Lumby and Marianne Coleman have been researching this issue for more than two decades and this important book demonstrates their deep understanding of, and engagement with, many key dimensions of equality and inequality in schools. -- Tony Bush This very accessible book takes complex and challenging ideas and makes these practical and accessible without being patronizing. Lumby and Coleman are deeply reflective and open about the issues covered, and explain that there are no 'magic answers' in seeking solutions in the endeavours of educators to address issues of equality. They are also unflinching in urging us to reflect on our own practices and predispositions critically, which may, albeit unconsciously, be adding to misunderstandings, misconceptions and socially unjust behaviours. Furthermore, the authors do not pretend to address all aspects of equality but claim only to have picked out issues that they feel are particularly pertinent to the world of schools... I wholeheartedly recommend this as a core piece of reading for teachers, teachers in training, teacher educators, parents and school governors. It also has relevance for all of us in education who need some provocation to engage in considering aspects of prejudice that may have escaped our conscious attention and which need to be addressed in our practices. -- Linda Hammersley-Fletcher Lumby and Coleman have an engaging and accessible style. A unique feature of this book in the inclusion of various case studies that illustrate how the complex issue of equality is addressed in different types of schools throughout the United Kingdom... The greatest utility of this book may be its potential to spark discussion and motivate readers to consider changes that may make their school environments fairer. -- Lisa H Rosen
