How Amnesty International Youth Groups can promote EDI in FE

Shamila Hussain, English Teacher & Race Equality Forum Co Chair, Leeds City College

My teaching has been shaped by the key principles of human rights, equality, diversity and inclusion over the years, and I’ve found innovative ways to instil common values and human rights into my lessons. The GCSE and vocational curriculums do offer plenty of opportunities to embed freedom of expression, security, tolerance and safety, however I think in further education (FE) settings we need to look beyond the curriculum.

Setting up extracurricular activities and groups can really support young people tap into their creativity and activism. By providing them with the ability to use their voice to create change, we can empower them to think about how they can positively shape the future.

At Leeds City College, we’ve set up Human Rights Groups such as Amnesty International Youth Club and Youth For Human Rights International, which have been really successful, particularly with the 14 to 16-year-olds who study with us through our 14+ academies.

The academies are full-time alternative environments, providing a transformational educational setting away from mainstream school for people from diverse backgrounds with a range of academic and developmental abilities. Staff and learners foster equality and diversity through creating a culture of inclusivity, respect and tolerance.

Last year, through the Amnesty Youth Club, students from the academies worked on a project to create awareness of different disabilities and how that can impact people in a variety of ways. They campaigned and held meetings with senior staff, sharing personal stories and suggestions on how the academies can continue to create an active curriculum promoting equality and inclusivity towards people with disabilities.

The campaign helped the college senior leadership team appreciate the importance of topics that are important to young people today. The success of the campaign and meetings can be directly seen in the PSHE curriculum delivered to both Year 10 and Year 11 learners, giving them an insight into the experiences of others.

One learner said: “The Amnesty International Youth Club allowed me to share my story and create direct change. It empowered me and gave me a voice.”