Drawing on the views of 2,000 UK teachers sought over 2019 and 2020, our Diversity and inclusion in schools report reveals that four in five (80%) UK teachers1 believe that more can be done to celebrate diverse cultures, people and experiences in UK education.
It showcases a desire for change among the profession, with many teachers having paused and really reflected on the diversity of their curriculum, and importantly, where it is falling short for their students over the past year. According to our research, two-thirds (66%) of teachers were prompted to think about the diversity of what they teach due to the Black Lives Matter movement. They also raise particular concerns around the inclusion of students with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) and those who are from Black Asian and minority ethnicities (BAME) and disadvantaged backgrounds.
At a time when the proportion of pupils who are from minority ethnic backgrounds2, have a registered SEND3 or are living in disadvantaged circumstances4 continues to increase, the percentage of teachers who feel these groups are ‘very represented’ in the topics, materials and resources that are taught in schools could be far greater.
As well as exploring the impact of students not seeing themselves reflected in what they learn, the Diversity and Inclusion in Schools report also draws on the views of leading experts and practitioners to help outline recommendations for change. These include calls for more authentic portrayals of diverse communities, people and experiences in the content that is taught in schools, greater guidance to build confidence and understanding in this area, as well as ensuring that the voices of children and young people are heard on these issues.
Initiatives that are championing inclusion across the sector and within Pearson are highlighted throughout the report, alongside our commitment to review the content we produce and ensure all children - of all backgrounds and abilities - feel that they belong in education. This report is just one of the many ways that we are inviting students, teachers, parents and experts to share their views and suggestions with us. While we do not have all the answers, we will continue to listen, learn and take action.
Download Diversity and inclusion in schools report
1 ‘Teachers’ refers to the school leaders, middle leaders, teachers and teaching assistants in pupil-facing roles, who completed the national surveys.
2 Schools, pupils and their characteristics Department for Education, 2020
3 Schools, pupils and their characteristics Department for Education, 2020
4 Schools, pupils and their characteristics Department for Education, 2020
