DIVERSITY is the buzz word for a group of pupils at West Bridgford School.
Students from across all of the school years have been involved in making sure their peers understand the importance of people being able to live together, no matter their background.
It is that work that has seen the school become the first secondary in the county to gain the Stephen Lawrence Award.
The accolades have been given out to schools to recognise their commitment to tackling racism.
The award is named after Stephen Lawrence, who was killed 20 years ago in a racist attack in London.
To gain a level one award, the schools had to fulfil 12 criteria, including staff and governors being trained in race equality; adopting an inclusive curriculum which celebrates cultural and racial diversity; and responding to racial harassment and bullying effectively.
As well as West Bridgford School, five primary schools gained an award after two years of work towards it.
West Bridgford School decided to get students heavily involved and appointed as ambassadors.
Their job was to organise events including a Japanese day, take assemblies and inform other students of the importance of different cultures living together.
They also made a presentation at the nearby Asda store in Loughborough Road.
One of the ambassadors, Inaya Khan, 14, said: "I'm really pleased we have been given this award. We've done a lot of hard work towards it.
"We have had culture days like one on Japan where we decorated the cafe and put flags up and teachers dressed in costumes. We've also had a day focusing on Jamaica."
Seventeen-year-old Fiona Garrahan was also among the ambassadors.
She said: "We really wanted to spread the message about diversity around the school. I feel that our work really justified us getting the award. Hopefully other schools can follow suit."
Harry Leckerby, 13, said: "I have really enjoyed being one of the ambassadors. I've been able to take part in assemblies and really get the message across to other students."
Toni Aderombi, 11, added: "We have successfully shown that everyone is equal no matter what.
"We have been able to show this to other students through assemblies and other events, which I have enjoyed being a part of."
Several children's centres in Newark also picked up an accolade (see panel).
The awards were handed out to representatives of the schools and centres at Rufford Country Park last week.
The national programme, which encourages good practice and awareness of race equality, was set up following the MacPherson Inquiry into the death of Stephen Lawrence.
County council vice-chairman Pauline Allan said: "These children are helping to shape the future – developing the responsible, compassionate citizens our society so desperately needs."
John Peck, committee chairman of the county council's children and young people's services, said: "Undoubtedly, the issues which the standard explores are very sensitive ones and some people might say that they're too difficult for four and five-year-olds to truly comprehend.
"What these children and staff demonstrate, though, is that it's never too early to start having these conversations with children."