Equality & Diversity

 Our Commitment to EDI

Equality, Diversity and Inclusion (EDI) is at the heart of everything we do at USP College.

We are committed to creating a learning and working environment where all students, staff and visitors feel welcome, safe and supported. We actively celebrate difference, challenge discrimination and ensure everyone has equal opportunities to reach their full potential.

Our approach is guided by:

  • The Equality Act 2010 and the Public Sector Equality Duty
  • The nine protected characteristics
  • Our USP values of Respect, Belonging, Empowerment and Community
  • National initiatives such as the AoC Mental Health Charter
  • Read the full EDI Policy here EDI Policy - Review in October 2026

We believe that inclusion is more than a statement, it’s embedded in our culture, curriculum and community.

At USP College, we are proud to be an inclusive and diverse community where everyone is valued, respected and empowered to thrive.

Our EDI strategy is aligned with our College Strategic Plan and Ofsted’s Personal Development framework.

We focus on:

  • Promoting respect and belonging across all campuses
  • Ensuring equal access to high-quality education and support
  • Tackling discrimination and systemic barriers
  • Celebrating our students’ and staff’s diversity
  • Creating safe spaces for all voices to be heard
  • To ensure transparency and impact, USP College publishes measurable EDI objectives. Our current priorities include:
  • Reducing gaps in achievement and participation across groups
  • Diversifying curriculum content to reflect all learners
  • Increasing visibility and celebration of underrepresented communities
  • Enhancing accessibility across campuses and online platforms
  • Strengthening belonging and voice through the EDI Committee and student leadership

We review and update our objectives annually to make sure they reflect our college community and local context.

Celebrating Diversity at USP

USP College is proud to celebrate the richness of our community. Throughout the year, we host campaigns and events that recognise and celebrate difference, build understanding and create a culture of belonging.

Some of our key events include:

  • Black History Month
  • Pride Month
  • Neurodiversity Celebration Week
  • International Women’s Day
  • Mental Health Awareness Week
  • VE Day 80th Commemoration

We also champion enrichment and volunteering programmes such as Good for Me Good for FE, UOK Mental Health Peer Support, and Thrifted - empowering students to make a difference locally and nationally.

We take reports of discrimination, bullying, harassment or victimisation seriously.

If you experience or witness anything that makes you feel unsafe or excluded, there are several ways to get help and support.

  • Report an incident or concern
  • (confidential online form)
  • Speak to a member of the Wellbeing Team or your Progress Coach
  • Contact the Safeguarding Team
  • Use the emergency safeguarding number displayed on campus
  • Support is also available through UOK peer support, counselling, accessibility services and student voice networks.

EDI Leadership & Governance

EDI is championed at the highest level at USP College. Our work is led by the Assistant Principal for Student Experience and overseen by the EDI Committee, which includes both staff and students.

We regularly review our progress through:

  • Annual equality reporting
  • Learner and staff surveys
  • EDI Committee action plans
  • Priority learner panels and student voice forums

Accessibility & Inclusion

We are committed to making USP College accessible to everyone. Our campuses and online platforms are continuously reviewed to ensure they meet accessibility standards.

  • Wheelchair accessible spaces
  • Assistive technology support
  • Learning support and reasonable adjustments
  • Accessible website design (WCAG 2.1 AA compliance) 

Get Involved

Everyone at USP College has a role to play in building an inclusive culture.

You can make a difference by:

  • Joining the EDI Committee
  • Volunteering with student-led projects
  • Becoming an EDI Champion
  • Sharing your experiences and ideas