More than 1,000 pupils at Falkirk High School took part in an event centred on equality and diversity and the impact that discrimination can have on people. The session, led by NHS Forth Valley as part of Health Week, reflected the core values of the school – Ready, Respectful and Responsible.

NHS Forth Valley Equality and Diversity Manager Lynn Waddell spoke about dignity and respect and was joined by PC Mike Parsons from Police Scotland Forth Valley Division who explained the consequences of hate incidences. The pupils were also given an update on how they can bookmark the NHS Forth Valley website on their smart phones for information about services and how to enhance health, wellbeing and safety.

Around 120 staff at the school subsequently completed a personal development session with Lynn Waddell who said feedback from both sessions had been extremely positive.

“Although I spoke to a lot of people during both days I feel that even if we have raised the confidence of one person to challenge discrimination or to look at their own behaviour then it was worthwhile’.

Teacher Jaclyn Conington, a Faculty Head of Creative and Aesthetic added: “The sessions were very informative and contained practical information which was tied clearly to current legislation.”

Headteacher Keith Webster also commented on the staff session directly stating “I was very pleased with the session. The tone was just right and it was presented in an informative and engaging way.”