EQUALITY AND NON-DISCRIMINATION PLAN
Introduction
The Act on Equality between Women and Men (609/1986) and the Non-Discrimination Act (1325/2014) oblige education providers and institutions to promote equality and non-discrimination and to prepare a plan for achieving these objectives. Institutions providing basic education in the arts are required to prepare an institution-specific equality and non-discrimination plan.
The purpose of this Equality and Non-Discrimination Plan is to promote the realization of equality and non-discrimination at the International School of Music Finland (ISM). The plan applies to students, applicants, guardians, staff, and partners. Through this plan, the aim is to prevent and eliminate all forms of discrimination based on, for example, gender, gender identity or expression, age, origin, nationality, language, religion, belief, opinion, sexual orientation, health status, or disability.
ISM’s operations are based on values that emphasize multiculturalism, equality, and mutual respect. The goal is to create a safe, open, and encouraging learning and working environment where everyone has the opportunity to study and work from their own starting points. Equality and non-discrimination are seen as part of the institution’s everyday operating culture.
The plan is publicly available, and its implementation is evaluated regularly. The plan is updated as necessary in cooperation with staff, students, and guardians.
Legislation on Equality and Non-Discrimination
Act on Equality between Women and Men (609/1986)
The purpose of the Equality Act is to prevent discrimination based on gender and to promote equality between women and men as well as between different genders. According to the Act, the education provider must ensure that everyone has equal opportunities for education and that teaching and the learning environment support the realization of equality.
The institution’s equality plan must include an assessment of the current equality situation, necessary measures to promote equality, and an evaluation of the implementation of previous measures.
Special attention must be paid to student selection, the organization of teaching, assessment, and the prevention of sexual and gender-based harassment.
Non-Discrimination Act (1325/2014)
According to the Non-Discrimination Act, the education provider must assess the realization of non-discrimination in its activities and take necessary measures to promote it. The institution must have a plan to promote non-discrimination, and students and their guardians must be given the opportunity to be heard when the plan is prepared and evaluated.
Measures to promote non-discrimination must be appropriate and proportionate to the institution’s activities and resources.
Assessment of the Current State of Equality and Non-Discrimination at ISM
The International School of Music Finland is an international institution where people of different ages and cultural backgrounds study and work. Multiculturalism, openness, and equality are emphasized in its operations.
During the previous planning period, no systematic discrimination or activities contrary to equality and non-discrimination legislation have been identified at ISM. Any individual cases of inappropriate behavior have been addressed promptly in accordance with the institution’s practices.
The institution strives to take accessibility into account in its facilities, organization of teaching, and communication. The assessment of the current situation is based on management evaluation, staff discussions, and feedback from students and guardians.
Equality and Non-Discrimination in the Work Environment
ISM aims to be an equal and non-discriminatory workplace where staff are treated fairly and respectfully.
4.1 Recruitment
Recruitment follows the principles of non-discrimination. Selection criteria are gender-neutral and based on the applicant’s qualifications and suitability for the position. Personal factors such as age, gender, nationality, or family status do not influence selection.
4.2 Organization of Work and Career Development
Work tasks and responsibilities are distributed as evenly as possible. Staff have equal opportunities to participate in development, training, and career advancement.
4.3 Working Conditions and Pay
Working conditions must be suitable for all employees. Equal pay is provided for the same and equivalent work.
4.4 Work Atmosphere and Inappropriate Behavior
ISM promotes an open, safe, and respectful working atmosphere. Bullying, harassment, and discrimination are prohibited.
Sexual harassment and gender-based harassment are forms of discrimination prohibited by the Equality Act. If harassment occurs, it must be reported immediately to the principal or the institution’s management. Cases are handled confidentially, ensuring the legal protection of all parties involved.
Equality and Non-Discrimination in the Learning Environment
At ISM, every student has the right to a safe and encouraging learning environment. Teaching takes into account students’ individual starting points, stages of development, and learning needs.
5.1 Student Admission
Students are admitted to ISM in order of registration, in accordance with non-discrimination principles. The applicant’s background does not influence admission.
5.2 Teaching Arrangements and Assessment of Learning
Teaching and assessment are based on ISM’s curriculum. Assessment is encouraging, guides learning, and takes into account the student’s individual starting points.
5.3 Gender Diversity and Cultural Diversity
Gender diversity and different cultural backgrounds are respected. An accepting and open atmosphere is consciously fostered.
5.4 Accessibility and Reasonable Accommodations
The institution strives to implement reasonable accommodations according to students’ individual needs in cooperation with students and their guardians.
Concrete Measures
To promote equality and non-discrimination, ISM implements the following measures: reviewing the plan with staff, collecting feedback from students and guardians, regularly reviewing teaching and assessment, taking accessibility into account, and preventing and addressing harassment and discrimination situations.
Responsibilities
The principal is responsible for implementing and updating the plan. The institution’s board approves the plan and monitors its implementation. Staff implement the plan in daily activities. Students and guardians participate in promoting equality and non-discrimination through feedback and discussion.
Monitoring and Evaluation
The implementation of the plan is evaluated annually as part of the institution’s operations. The plan is updated as necessary in cooperation with staff, students, and their families.
Updated: 29 January 2026
Approved at the board meeting: 13 March 2026
For any questions related to this plan, please contact info@ismfinland.org.