Community Cohesion

The Duty on Schools Ghulam Abbas

Why is it Important? • Globalisation – A shrinking world with technological advances – Faster economic and social growth – Increased migration • A Changing UK society – Increasing population and – Increasing diversity

Can we handle Diversity?

• Divisions and tensions between communities and neighbourhoods • Demands to limit migration • Discrimination • Variance in opportunity and outcomes • Raise of extremist groups

What is Community Cohesion?

• Is a society where: – there is a common vision; – sense of belonging by all communities; – the diversity of people’s backgrounds and circumstances is appreciated and valued; – similar life opportunities are available to all; – strong and positive relationships exist; and – continue to be developed in the workplace, in schools and in the wider community.

For Schools its about…

• The community within and outside the school gates • Promoting equality, challenging prejudices • Preparing young people for the diverse and changing world outside • Raising achievement and fulfilling potential

IS THIS ANYTHING REALLY NEW?

How schools could meet the duty?

• Teaching, learning and curriculum • Equity and excellence • Engagement and extended services

Support and Useful Resources

• Community Cohesion Guidance www.teachernet.gov.uk/wholeschool/Communitycohesion/Com munity_Cohesion_Guidance/ • Community Cohesion Regional Conferences – 28 January 2008, Guildford www.coventry.ac.uk/researchnet/d/527/a/2765 • School Linking Programme www.schoolslinkingnetwork.org.uk

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Who do we think we are?

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