Equality, diversity and inclusion
Proud to celebrate and support our vibrant Kingston University communities
Welcome to the Equality, Diversity and Inclusion pages at Kingston. Find out how we strive to challenge ourselves to think and act differently so that everyone in our University feels like they belong, can be their authentic self, and is empowered to reach their full potential.
We know that our diversity brings only benefits for our students, our staff and our work. The greater the variety of perspectives and experiences we have, the better we can create innovative ways of learning and teaching, while developing ideas and solutions to create and foster equity and social justice.
Kingston has a long history of challenging inequality and works hard to exceed its legal obligations under the Equality Act 2010 and the Public Sector Equality Duty. We are proud of the journey so far but recognise there is still work to be done. See below how we're making a difference, one step at a time.
EDI objectives and commitments
At Kingston we see diversity as a strength. We value the rich variety of backgrounds, identities and experiences our staff and students bring to the University.
We support the Scottish Funding Council's declaration on anti-racism for HEI's and FE Colleges: 'Racism exists on our campuses and in our society. Call it what it is and reject it in all of its forms. We stand united against racism'.
We are actively listening to, and engaging with, our staff and student community and setting new objectives and commitments that will promote a culture of acceptance without exception.
Inclusive curriculum
At Kingston, we believe that in a global and diverse world, our degree courses should reflect the experiences of a diverse range of people, with different backgrounds and perspectives.
Creating an inclusive curriculum is part of our drive to close the Degree Awarding Gap for students by making our courses more inclusive and accessible to everyone, whatever their background.
News
Key Initiatives
Here you will find some of our key EDI themes initiatives that are driving forward equality of opportunity for all staff and students and promoting a culture of inclusivity.
Beyond Barriers Mentoring Scheme
This scheme sees industry professionals mentor students to support their personal and professional development. It's our way of ensuring that every student has the opportunity to succeed, regardless of their background.
Equality, diversity and inclusion sponsors
We have established equality sponsors from the senior leadership team to champion activity in relation to some of the characteristics protected under the Equality Act 2010.
Equality data
By tracking staff and student demographics, we can ensure the University is meeting its commitments to improving equity on race, gender, sexual orientation, disability.
Guidance and support
We provide comprehensive support services for staff and students, from counselling and support with specific learning differences to help with disabilities and access to an Employee Assistance Programme.
Staff Networks
Our staff networks provide safe spaces for colleagues to network, collaborate and kickstart projects that drive meaningful change at the University. Learn more about our People of Colour and LGBTQ+ networks and our Network of Equality Champions.
Tackling the Degree Awarding Gap
We want to ensure that students from all walks of life are enabled to access and succeed in higher education. By identifying and addressing different degree outcomes within our student population, we can take steps to close unexplained degree awarding gaps.
ELEVATE
ELEVATE is an award-winning careers and employability focused accelerator programme for Kingston's students from Black British African, Caribbean or mixed heritage. ELEVATE was launched in 2020 to address the degree awarding gap and disparities in graduate outcomes between Black and White students, which highlight the issue of systemic racism.
Celebrating diversity
Black History Month
During Black History Month, Kingston University students, staff and alumni will be marking the enormous contributions the Black community has made to Britain.
LGBT+ History Month
LGBT+ History Month is a time to reflect, to celebrate and to look to the future. Kingston University's students, staff and alumni are marking the month through a series of online events, shared creative expression and open conversations.
Women's History Month
Each year, the social, economic, cultural and political achievements of women throughout society are celebrated during Women's History Month.
Inclusion Calendar
Use this calendar to raise your own awareness of equality and diversity and to help plan events and initiatives in an inclusive way.
Charter marks accreditations and pledges
Athena Swan
The Athena Swan Charter is a global scheme designed to support and transform gender equality within higher education (HE) and research.
Care Leaver Covenant
An early adopter of the government's Care Leaver Covenant, the University promises to provide support for care leavers aged 16-25 to help them into and beyond university.
Disability Confident Scheme
The Disability Confident scheme supports employers to make the most of the talents disabled people can bring to the workplace.
National Network for the Education of Care Leavers
The University is a member of the National Network for the Education of Care Leavers (NNECL) and holds the NNECL Quality Mark.
Race Equality Charter Award
Eliminating institutional and cultural barriers impacting Black, Asian and Minority Ethnic (BAME) staff and students.
Standalone Pledge
In 2016 the University was one of the first signatories of the Standalone Pledge to support estranged learners in higher education.
Stonewall
Kingston University is proud to be a member of Stonewall's Diversity Champions Programme, a scheme that works with institutions to create inclusive and accepting cultures.
