Topical Talk

Equity versus equality

Is Stormzy's scholarship fair? Discuss whether education initiatives and the law should prioritise equity or equality.

Collage of pages from the “Equity versus equality” teaching resource showing the cover and lesson plan

Published 19 September 2025

About this lesson

Should everyone be treated the same? Or do some need extra support to reach the same outcomes?

Ahead of UK Black History Month, explore initiatives that promote fairness in education, from funding for Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) in the US to Stormzy’s scholarship for Black British students.

Looking for more Black History Month resources? Explore our new lesson bundle.

Use this lesson to help students:

  • Understand the difference between equity and equality
  • Examine real-world initiatives that aim to promote fairness in education
  • Debate whether the law should prioritise equity or equality

Skills and knowledge

  • Problem solving

    Step 6: Analysing options
    I identify the advantages and disadvantages of potential solutions
    Did you consider the advantages and disadvantages for each option in your court case?

    Step 12: Logical reasoning
    I use logical reasoning to structure problems
    Did you use logical reasoning when considering the facts for your case?

    Step 14: Strategic planning
    I develop strategic plans to address complex problems
    Did you plan an argument using your notes to address the problem?

  • Knowledge

    I know what equity and equality mean and how initiatives and laws try to
    make education fairer.
    What is the difference between equality and equity? Can you give an example?

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