Protected Characteristics and the Equality Act - Year 6

Protected Characteristics and the Equality Act

In this lesson, students will delve into the concept of fairness and examine the differences between equity and equality. We will revisit the term discrimination, then expand on prior knowledge by exploring real-life examples of both direct and indirect discrimination. The class will discuss which groups in our society might require additional support to ensure they have the same opportunities as everyone else. This will naturally lead to an exploration of the Equality Act and its protected characteristics, highlighting how the law helps level the playing field for those most vulnerable to discrimination.

The lesson includes a starter activity, a video task with reflection questions, a creative poster design activity, and a reflective plenary. The lesson is fully resourced and ready to use, but also editable for customisation. This session is best suited to students in Upper Key Stage 2 (specifically Year 6), as it builds on earlier lessons on prejudice and discrimination introduced in Year 4.