Community Cohesion DutyAlveena Malik Principal Associate

What does

‘Community Cohesion’ actually mean?

What is community cohesion? (UK Gov)

By ‘community cohesion’ we mean working towards a society in which:

1. there is a common vision and sense of belonging by all communities;

2. the diversity of people’s backgrounds and circumstances is appreciated and valued;

3. similar life opportunities are available to all; and

4. strong and positive relationships exist and continue to be developed in the workplace, in schools and in the wider community.

disability

religion

social class

urban - rural

economic deprivation

learning needs

home language

• Britain is hyper-diverse

• Persistent Inequalities

• Increased migration

• Rise in extremism

• Identity Politics

• Globalisation

Challenges to Community Cohesion

What is the new legal duty for schools in England?

• Teaching Learning & Curriculum

• Equity & Excellence

• Community Engagement & Extended Services

DCSF:Three aspects for schools

Case studies

How Schools Are Promoting Community Cohesion

South Bermondsey Partnership – Intergenerational Project

Blakebrook Special School – Disability and social action

Appleby Grammar School – Gypsy and Traveller project

High Crest School – Raising Aspirations of Muslim women

The Sydney Russell School – Exploring white identity

Liverpool Cluster Schools – Fair trade

Guidance1) DCSF guidance and resource pack:

www.teachernet.gov.uk/wholeschool/Communitycohesion/

2) Institute of Community Cohesion good practice database:

http://resources.cohesioninstitute.org.uk/GoodPractice/Projects/Default.aspx

3) British Council Intercultural Dialogue Resource Guide:

http://www.cohesioninstitute.org.uk/Resources/Toolkits/InterculturalDialogue

4) National Governors Association Cohesion Governors Guide:

http://www.nga.org.uk/cohesion/

5) Council for Subject Associations Community Cohesion Materials:

http://www.subjectassociations.org.uk/index.php?page=78

6) Who Do We Think We Are Week:

http://www.wdwtwa.org.uk/

The Institute of Community Cohesionwww.cohesioninstitute.org.uk