DELEGATES from across the region have attended a conference which focused on methods of tackling racism in schools.

The equality and diversity conference was hosted for the first time by North Yorkshire County Council's education service.

The event was held to promote cultural diversity and showcase successful racial equality work that has already taken place.

The conference was attended by delegates from 100 schools. Speakers included Stella Dadzie, author of Toolkit for Tackling Racism in Schools, and Cynthia Welbourn, director of education in North Yorkshire.

LEA curriculum advisor, Diane McConnell, said: "Headteachers and governors of many schools attended the conference. They looked at different things they can do to promote racial equality and they considered the ethos and environment of their schools.

"Classroom teachers will now attend training days to learn how to handle such things as racist language and how to put into practice their racial equality policies."

County Councillor Chris Metcalfe, executive member for education, said: "It is vital that people live as equals within a multicultural society.

"The best way to make this happen is to ensure people learn about different cultures and backgrounds from an early age, which is why the education service has arranged the training days."