Guiding Principles

The principles that guide us in our work on EDI at the College.

Take a leading role in the sector

Work with academic leads in social policy and discrimination (including Gender.ED, Race.ED) to advance the field, and to ensure our approach is grounded in theory and best practice.

Be driven by evidence

We will take an evidence-based approach to EDI, proactively collecting, analysing, acting and monitoring data related to our staff and students. We will strive to request data types that are currently unavailable, be aware of trends within the higher education sector and understand Scottish, UK and global EDI contexts.

Learn from the voices of those affected

We will engage with networks and committees comprising under-represented groups to gain knowledge of the “lived experience” in order to identify and dismantle barriers to participation.

How do we work?

Be holistic and intersectional in our thinking

Recognising that many people don’t fall into narrow categories, rather they possess overlapping protected characteristics and may experience discrimination in more or different ways. We take an intersectional approach that embraces complexity, to broaden understanding of discrimination and to accelerate the development of an inclusive environment.

Communication 

Develop robust channels to communicate our inclusive vision, celebrate our successes and provide insight into the diverse EDI activities across the College. We wish to share our inclusive vision with current and prospective Edinburgh University students, staff, and others in the wider community. 

More information:

Our College EDI Equality Diversity and Inclusion Goals and Principles document sets out our approach in full: