Equality, Diversity and Inclusion: Creating a Respectful Learning Environment

Everyone deserves to feel safe, respected and included while they’re learning.

Our learners come from different backgrounds, have different experiences and learn in different ways. We want everyone to feel able to be themselves, ask for support and achieve their goals.

What do equality, diversity and inclusion mean?

Equality means making sure people have fair access to opportunities and are treated fairly.

Diversity recognises and values the differences between people. These differences can include our backgrounds, experiences, beliefs, identities, abilities and perspectives.

Inclusion is about making sure everyone feels welcomed, respected and able to take part.

Together, these principles help create a learning environment where everyone has the opportunity to succeed.

Your learning support

If you have a learning difficulty, disability, medical condition or other support need, please let us know.

You don’t need to wait until you’re struggling to ask for help.

We may be able to provide support such as:

• Adjustments to learning activities
• Additional guidance or support sessions
• Assistive technology or resources
• Support with assessments
• Reasonable adjustments where appropriate
• Different ways of accessing learning
• Strategies to help you learn more confidently

Your Development Coach can help you understand what support is available and put you in touch with the appropriate team.

You don’t need a diagnosis to ask for help

If you’re finding something difficult or think you may benefit from additional support, speak to us.

We can talk through your options and help identify what may work for you.

Bullying and harassment

Bullying and harassment are not acceptable in your workplace or during your learning.

This can include:

• Offensive or intimidating behaviour
• Ridiculing or humiliating someone
• Deliberately excluding someone
• Misusing power
• Treating someone unfairly
• Unwanted sexual behaviour or comments
• Repeatedly undermining someone
• Online bullying or inappropriate behaviour on social media

You should never feel that you have to deal with this alone.

If you’re experiencing or witnessing bullying or harassment, speak to your Development Coach or another appropriate member of the team.

Creating an inclusive environment

Everyone has a part to play in creating a respectful learning environment.

You can help by:

• Treating others with respect
• Listening to different perspectives
• Avoiding assumptions about other people
• Challenging inappropriate behaviour appropriately
• Being inclusive in your communication
• Asking for help when you’re unsure what to do

We all learn from each other, and your differences and experiences can contribute to a stronger learning community.

If you have a concern

If something has happened that makes you feel uncomfortable, excluded, bullied or discriminated against, please speak up.
You can talk to your Development Coach, employer or another member of the team.

If your concern is serious or you don’t feel comfortable raising it directly, we can explain the other ways you can report it.
You have the right to learn in an environment where you feel safe, respected and supported.