A city-wide anti-racism programme has officially started rolling out in schools across Derby as part of the Council’s commitment to build stronger, more inclusive communities. 

The two-year programme, delivered by Show Racism the Red Card (SRtRC) will provide free face-to-face anti-racism education. 

The first session took place at the end of January at UTC Derby Pride Park, marking the start of a rolling programme that aims to work with as many schools in Derby as possible over the next two academic years. The session was attended by Councillor Sarah Chambers, Cabinet Member for Communities, Equalities and Public Safety. 

The funding over the two academic years will support the delivery of anti-racism education in line with the Council’s emerging Social Cohesion Strategy and its Public Sector Equality Duty under the Equality Act 2010. 

Over the two-year period, SRtRC will deliver workshops to individual classes of up to 30 people, with a maximum of four workshops per day to ensure high-quality engagement and safeguarding. Staff training sessions will also be provided to help embed learning and support.

The programme is already working with several Derby schools, with confirmed dates including:

  • UTC Derby Pride Park
  • Derby Pride Park School
  • Aurora Ryefields School
  • St Mary's Catholic Voluntary Academy
  • Leesbrook Academy
  • The Bemrose School

Further schools are expected to join as the programme progresses.

The roll out of the programme responds to evidence of need. Latest figures from Safer Derbyshire Research and Information (SDRI) show that there was a 14% increase in hate crime in Derby last year. Between January and December 2025, there were a total of 1162 hate crimes reported. 

By delivering education in schools, the programme aims to challenge prejudice early, reduce the risk of bullying and hate-related harm, and equip young people with the skills and confidence to stand up to racism. 

Councillor Sarah Chambers, Cabinet Member for Communities, Equalities and Public Safety said:

We are committed to making Derby a city where everyone feels safe, valued and respected. Schools are critical spaces where attitudes are formed, and it’s vital that we support young people to understand the impact of racism and how to challenge it.

This partnership with Show Racism the Red Card will help us build understanding, empathy and support in our schools, strengthening our work on social cohesion and ensuring that every child in Derby has the opportunity to learn in an inclusive environment free from hate.

Show Racism the Red Card is the UK’s leading anti-racism educational charity, with more than 25 years’ experience delivering specialist programmes in schools. Its football-linked model, including access to high-profile role models and tailored educational resources, is designed to engage young people and reinforce positive messages around equality and inclusion.

The school roll out follows on from the No Place for Hate campaign, which was launched in December and calls on partners and organisations across Derby to commit to taking practical and visible actions to challenge hate and support inclusion. The actions include working in partnership with Derby City Council to promote respect, reviewing internal policies, providing staff training on responding to hate crime and harassment, and making public commitments to zero tolerance.