Equality and Diversity

South Devon College believes in the principle of freedom from discrimination for everyone, regardless of their age, gender, disability, ethnic or national origins, marital status, sexual orientation, social background or religious beliefs, or of being part of any other group which may have experienced discrimination.

The primary aim of the Equality and Diversity strategy is to ensure that South Devon College provides real equality of opportunity for all of our existing learners and staff. We aim to continue to attract increasing numbers of learners into non-traditional vocational areas and from groups within the wider community who are under-represented in learning.

In the 2009 Ofsted inspection report, the approach to equality and diversity was graded as "Outstanding":

"Equality of opportunity is outstanding, including its response to race equality, gender and disability legislation. The promotion of equality of opportunity is highly effective. The numerous displays, posters, focus groups and events illustrate how fundamental equality of opportunity is to the life of the college."

"Discrimination, harassment and bullying are not tolerated in any form. Training is comprehensive. The college seeks and acts on the views of learners and stakeholders from different backgrounds, including those with disabilities."

"Impact assessments are thorough. Equality of opportunity and diversity are scrupulously embedded within the curriculum. Achievement data and complaints are analysed closely for equal opportunities issues."

"Educational and social inclusion are outstanding. The college works effectively with partners to successfully include learners from under-represented groups."

"The proportion of learners from minority ethnic groups is higher than in the local population. Programmes for learners with disabilities and/or learning difficulties are good."

Ofsted Report, 2009. (View the full Ofsted report here. PDF, 80Kb.)

This year we have further widened participation with programmes such as 'Flex' (previously e2e), Pre-Flex and our highly successful Teen Parent Programme now running at Newton Abbot and Torre.

We also continue to provide outstanding resources for learners with support needs such as sensory impairment, including a Braille printer.

Our priorities for the coming year will be to continue to ensure full compliance with legislation, and to monitor closely the impact of all our policies and actions policies. We will also continue to reach out to the whole community to widen participation still further across South Devon.

Attachments:

Equality-of-Fairness-by-Joe-Mee

40 Kb