FOSSE Way School in Radstock is celebrating being awarded Beacon School status for its work on race equality.

The special needs school has been recognised by Bath and North East Somerset Council’s Race Equality and Hate Crime Task Force Partnership for championing race equality.

The school works closely with the task force and was highlighted as a leader in promoting race equality through its actions, such as sharing good practice so that other schools in the local authority can benefit.

The school has sought advice from external partners such as Black Families Education Support Group and Stand Against Racism and Equality, and actioned findings from the Reflecting Realities Research, the first UK study looking at diversity in children's literature.

Fiona Skinner, headteacher at Fosse Way School, said: “We are absolutely delighted to have been awarded Beacon School status for our work on race equality. This recognition reflects our commitment to creating an inclusive environment where every child feels valued and respected.

“It’s a proud moment for our whole school community, and we look forward to continuing this important work.”

Pupils at Fosse Way School have celebrated Race Equality Week and Black History Month through learning about significant individuals such as Rosa Parks and Martin Luther King JR, and exploring different cultures.

School leaders have also promoted the Race Equality Charter by creating an 'easy read' version and accompanying video, making it accessible to all students within the special school.

Fosse Way School is a member of The Partnership Trust, a multi-academy trust of 17 schools in Bath and North East Somerset, and Somerset.

Emily Massey, CEO of The Partnership Trust said: “Congratulations students and staff at Fosse Way School for receiving this important award. I know how hard they have worked to achieve this within the complexities of a SEND setting and their example will be a shining light for all schools.”