Gender Action has four levels of award.
Supporter
At Supporter level a school commits to taking action. This level requires Senior Leadership Team support.
Initiator
At Initiator level a school begins its action research, finding out what the problems are in school and making some plans.
Champion
At champion level evidence is provided of these plans having been actioned, and further planning has taken place.
Beacon
A Beacon level school will have shown evidence across all areas of school life that gender equity is being implemented.
Beacon
Shining Lights
Beacon nurseries, schools and colleges will be those who truly excel and innovate to combat gender inequality and injustice. They will support other schools and be beacons of best practice, showing measurable impact.
Beacon Level shines a spotlight on nurseries/schools/colleges that continually innovate and excel in their quest to challenge stereotypes within their setting and the wider community. It recognises those that have fully embedded Gender Action principles throughout their ethos and school culture, who demonstrate a commitment to gender equity daily and in their work supporting others. Evidence of continued culture change and capacity building will be key to unlocking this recognition level.
Pitmaston Primary School, Worcestershire
Pitmaston Primary School has been working over the last few years on making their school a more equal place. As a result of this they received their Beacon Level award in May 2024.
As part of their work a group of children came together and worked on numerous projects as part of the Equality Champions group. Projects have included ‘pupil voice’ where the group went around and asked the children’s perspective on equality in the school and if they had any suggestions to make it even better, which has led to lots more changes small and large. For example, doing research so we could have a more diverse art curriculum, a wider range of historical figures and offering more mixed gender sports teams.
Amanda Sheehy, Equality Lead at Pitmaston Primary, shared:
“Our Gender Champions and Equality Champions in Years 5 and 6 have, for several years now, initiated a range of projects aimed at making our school a fairer place. The results are impressive—pupil and stakeholder surveys show just how invested our school community is in this important work.”
Click here for more details and to watch a short film showcasing their efforts.
King Edward VI School, Southampton
KES received their Beacon Level Award in July 2024.
Gender equity is embedded in the whole school with all staff on board. The work is evidence-based and there is a sense of a continual need for review, reflection and development in all areas of school life. Along with the knowledgeable, skilled and inspiring leadership that the school enjoys, this will ensure the sustainability of the programme.
Beacon Level Application
We’ll be working in partnership with nurseries, schools and colleges at this level and accreditation will be assessed by external visitors.
There is currently no accreditation cost to schools.