Under the Equality Act 2010, protected characteristics are specific attributes or traits that form part of a person's identity that are legally safeguarded against unlawful discrimination (treating someone 'less favourably' than someone else). 

The nine protected characteristics are age, disability, gender reassignment, marriage and civil partnership, pregnancy and maternity, race, religion or belief, sex, and sexual orientation.  They are shown in the diagram below.  Please click on the diagram to open a PDF version of it. 
 

In September 2020, Ofsted published guidance for schools on teaching the protected characteristics in school, with the explanation that it is important that all children have an understanding of the world they are growing up in, having learned how to live alongside, and show respect for, a diverse range of people. When schools undergo Ofsted inspections, they are assessed on how well they equip children to do this.

At Felbridge Primary School, teaching about protected characteristics is embedded throughout the curriculum and school life.

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