Inclusivity

Inclusivity is one of the core values of the Institution.  We aim to value, harness and utilise the diversity of our students and staff, and celebrate the benefits they bring.  We encourage all staff to:

• complete the online Diversity in the workplace module offered by the Equality Unit;
• embed inclusivity into all aspects of their academic practice.

Codes of Practice

We draw your attention to the following Codes of Practice:

• Students with disabilities;
• Access to the curriculum for disabled students;
• Assessment of disabled students.

Diversity and Inclusion in Learning, Teaching and Assessment (DILTA)

DILTA focuses on developing inclusive practice at the University.  Periodically it holds half-day workshops for all staff involved in teaching and learner support to investigate issues of inclusion and diversity that are of increasing relevance to university staff and to explore current good practice in inclusive learning, teaching, and assessment through a number of case studies. Participants are encouraged to share practice from their own discipline areas and to discuss both the current barriers to adopting a truly inclusive teaching practice and ways to overcome these barriers.

Other support

• Networks - for exploring diversity issues such as disability, race, sexual orientation, harassment, etc and influencing decision making;
• Development opportunities;
• Equality & Diversity unit;
• Disability Service.

Past experiences

Regrettably, on occasion, mistakes can happen.  In 2004 one such occurrence led to the University entering into a Section 5 Agreement with the Equality and Human Rights Commission (EHRC). It proved to be a valuable learning experience for all concerned and we were able to link the University developments with national initiatives through our involvement in the inclusivity programme supported by the Higher Education Academy.  We engaged in a radical programme of change, including engagement with and development of staff.  Polices, practices and awareness fundamentally changed as a result of this work.  We were delighted that on 6 May 2010 our final report was approved by the Legal Enforcement Directorate and both the EHRC Legal Committee and the EHRC Disability Committee.  It was not an easy journey; however, it provided us with the awareness and skills to review, challenge and change in order to continue offering an inclusive student learning experience of which we can justifiably be proud.

• EHRC report;
• Changing Together, HE Academy Project.