Diversity, Integration & Community Cohesion (Edexcel GCSE Citizenship Studies): Revision Note
Exam code: 1CS0
Developing mutual understanding
Mutual understanding is when people listen to each other and appreciate different views, cultures and experiences so they can live and work together respectfully
How mutual understanding is encouraged in schools and the wider community
In schools
Citizenship and PSHE education
Teaches pupils about diversity, equality, rights and responsibilities
Encourages respect for different cultures, religions and beliefs
Inclusive school policies
Clear rules against bullying, racism and discrimination
Promotes fair treatment and a sense of belonging
Diverse curriculum and activities
Learning about different cultures, religions and histories
Celebrating events such as Black History Month or religious festivals
Mixing pupils from different backgrounds
Group work and school clubs encourage cooperation
Helps pupils challenge stereotypes and build friendships
Case Study
Black History Month in UK schools
Black History Month takes place every October in the UK
Schools use it to recognise and celebrate the contributions of Black people to British history and society
How it promotes diversity and mutual understanding
Pupils learn about Black historical figures, role models, and achievements
Lessons explore topics such as migration, equality and civil rights
Helps challenge stereotypes and increase understanding of different experiences
How it supports integration and community cohesion
Activities are shared by pupils from all backgrounds
Encourages discussion, respect and empathy in the classroom
Helps pupils feel valued and included within the school community
Impact
Greater awareness of diversity and inequality
Improved attitudes towards different cultures and backgrounds
Stronger sense of belonging and respect among pupils
In the wider community
Community groups and youth organisations
Bring people from different backgrounds together through shared activities
Local council and charity projects
Support integration through language classes, advice services and events
Volunteering and social action
Encourages cooperation, empathy and shared responsibility
Case Study
The Scouts (UK)

The Scouts is a national youth organisation whose mission is to help young people develop skills for life while promoting respect, equality and community involvement
How it encourages mutual understanding
The Scouts brings together young people from different cultural, religious and social backgrounds
Members work in mixed groups on activities and challenges, encouraging teamwork and cooperation
The organisation promotes shared values such as respect, tolerance and helping others
Volunteering and community service activities help members understand different experiences and viewpoints
Impact
Young people develop greater tolerance and respect for others
Friendships are formed across different backgrounds
Members gain a stronger sense of belonging and community responsibility
Diversity and integration in society
Diversity means having a range of different backgrounds and identities within society
Differences include ethnicity, religion, culture, language, age, gender and beliefs
The UK is a diverse society, especially in large cities
For example, London and Leicester have residents from many ethnic and religious backgrounds
Diversity strengthens democracy
It encourages different viewpoints and ideas
It helps people learn from others and challenges stereotypes
Integration
Integration means people from different backgrounds living and working together
Migrants and minority groups take part in education, work and community life
Shared laws, values and institutions help people feel included
Examples of integration
Children from different backgrounds attending the same schools
Workplaces with diverse staff working together
English language classes helping new arrivals participate fully
Integration supports democracy
People are more likely to vote, volunteer and follow the law if they feel included
Community cohesion
Community cohesion means people getting along well, feeling a sense of belonging and sharing common values
It is based on
Mutual respect
Trust between different groups
Fair treatment and equality
Good community cohesion reduces
Conflict and tension
Prejudice and discrimination
It strengthens democracy
Communities are more stable, cooperative and engaged
Case Study
Community cohesion in Leicester

Leicester is one of the most diverse cities in the UK
No single ethnic group is a majority
Many religions are practiced, including Christianity, Islam, Hinduism and Sikhism
How community cohesion is promoted
The city council supports community events and cultural festivals, such as Diwali celebrations
Schools promote respect and understanding through education about different cultures
Community organisations encourage dialogue and cooperation between groups
Impact
Leicester is often seen as an example of peaceful multicultural living
Different communities feel represented and included
High levels of cooperation help maintain social stability
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