from Christian Concern
The EHRC gives examples of religious expression conflicting with other protected characteristics. But does it give enough examples of Christian pupils or teachers requiring protection? Head of Education Steve Beegoo responds to the EHRC’s new technical guidance
The Equality and Human Rights Commission (EHRC) has published new draft technical guidance for schools. It is asking whether the guidance clearly and accurately explains schools’ duties under the Equality Act 2010. It does not. Christians involved in education should read it and respond to the consultation, highlighting the concerns it raises.
***Respond to the consultation***
Importance
The guidance is important because, although it is not a statutory code, the EHRC says it may be used as evidence in legal proceedings, as it has been in the past. Our cases such as those of Bernard Randall, Kristie Higgs, Nigel and Sally Rowe and Felix Ngole stand out in this regard.
New guidance is provided separately for England, Wales and Scotland and schools that depart from it may be expected to explain why. What it says, and especially the examples it chooses, could therefore influence school policies and practices, staff training and significant decisions affecting Christian pupils, parents and teachers.