At OA we will ensure that we provide a safe and caring environment, free from discrimination, for everyone in our community, including children with additional needs.  To achieve the Company’s objective of creating an environment free from discrimination which is welcoming to all, each Club will:

• Respect the different racial origins, religions, cultures and languages in a multi-ethnic society so that each child is valued as an individual without racial or gender stereotyping.
• Not discriminate against children on the grounds of disability, sexual orientation, class, family status, or HIV/Aids status.
• Help all children to celebrate and express their cultural and religious identity by providing a wide range of appropriate resources and activities.
• Strive to ensure that children feel good about themselves and others, by celebrating the differences which make us all unique individuals.

• Ensure that our services are available to all parents/carers and children in the local community.
• Ensure that the Club’s recruitment policies and procedures are open, fair and non-discriminatory.
• Work to fulfil all the legal requirements of the Equality Act 2010. 
• We will Monitor and review the effectiveness of our inclusive practice by conducting an Inclusion Audit on an annual basis.

Challenging inappropriate attitudes and practices We will challenge inappropriate attitudes and practices by engaging children and adults in discussion, by displaying positive images of race and disability, and through our staff modelling anti-discriminatory behaviour at all times. Racial harassment The Club will not tolerate any form of racial harassment. The Club will challenge racist and‘discriminatory remarks, attitudes, and behaviours  from the children at the Club, from staff and from any other adults on Club premises (eg parents/carers collecting children). Promoting equal opportunities

• Staff receive relevant and appropriate training
• The Equalities policy is consistent with current legislation and guidance

• Appropriate action is taken wherever behaviour, language, or attitudes occur.

Children with additional needs Our Club recognises that some children have additional needs or physical disabilities that require particular support and assistance. We will assess the individual needs of each child in consultation with their parents prior to their attending the Club, and will make reasonable adjustments to ensure that children can access our services and are made to feel welcome. Where one-to-one support is required we will assist parents in accessing the funding required to provide the additional care.

Written in accordance with the Statutory Framework for the Early Years Foundation Stage (2021): Safeguarding and Welfare requirements: Equal opportunities [3.68], Information for parents and carers [3.74], Staff qualifications, training, support, and skills [3.20] and Child protection [3.7]