Equality, Diversity, Inclusion
Creating an Inclusive University
In the School of Arts at the University of Westminster, inclusivity is a fundamental principle that shapes everything we do. We are committed to removing systemic barriers – both visible and invisible – that limit access and success, and to creating gateways to opportunity for everyone in our community. From tackling racial disparities to supporting disabled students and colleagues, our commitment to equality, diversity, and inclusion (EDI) works towards meaningful action.
EDI in our Curriculum
An inclusive university begins with ensuring that all students – regardless of their background, disability, or identity – can thrive. Our approach to inclusive curriculum design aligns with sector-wide best practices, ensuring that every aspect of course design considers the needs of students from all backgrounds. This means accounting for differences in educational experience, cultural and linguistic backgrounds, financial circumstances, caring responsibilities, disability, and mental well-being. It means designing assessments that allow students to demonstrate their abilities in varied ways – whether through coursework, presentations, or practical projects. It also means embedding accessibility into teaching practices, from providing captioned lectures and accessible course materials to incorporating flexible learning options.
An inclusive curriculum benefits everyone. By adopting a proactive approach to student needs, we can improve engagement, retention, and overall academic success.
Our Commitment to Decolonisation
An inclusive university must also examine what – and how – it teaches. Our commitment to decolonising and diversifying the curriculum seeks to enact a fundamental shift in how knowledge is created and shared. We recognise that curricula have historically reflected Eurocentric perspectives, often marginalising the voices, histories, and contributions of Black, Indigenous, and other Global Majority communities.
To address this, we are embedding anti-racist teaching practices across all disciplines, ensuring that content is representative and inclusive. This is about rethinking the structures of knowledge that shape our students’ understanding of the world. Crucially, this work is integrated into course validation processes, ensuring long-term impact.
Partnerships
Inclusivity is about shaping the future of higher education and the industries our students will enter. Our partnerships with external organisations, such as our collaboration with the London Chamber of Commerce and Industry’s Black Business Association and Asian Business Association, ensure that inclusivity remains a priority beyond the walls of the university, helping to drive industry-wide change in recruitment, workplace accessibility, and career progression.
We are also committed to widening participation, breaking down barriers to higher education for those from disadvantaged backgrounds. Through targeted outreach programmes, scholarships, and mentorship initiatives, we aim to ensure that talented individuals – regardless of their background – can succeed.
EDI Networks at Westminster
A truly inclusive university must ensure that both students and staff feel represented, valued, and empowered to succeed. Our colleague networks provide vital spaces for discussion, advocacy, and professional development, allowing underrepresented groups to drive change from within. The Black and Minority Ethnic (BME) Network supports over 200 members, advocating for racial equity and representation across all levels of the University. The Colleague Disability Network ensures that disability is a key consideration in workplace policies and practices. By challenging traditional structures and embedding accessibility into everything from recruitment to career progression, the network works to create an equitable professional environment.
Similarly, the Faith, Spirituality and Belief Network fosters interfaith dialogue and recognises the importance of religious and non-religious identities in shaping workplace and learning experiences. The Q+ Network provides an essential space for LGBTQ+ colleagues and allies, advocating for policies that promote inclusivity in every aspect of university life. And the Women of Westminster (WOW) Network pushes for gender equity, ensuring that career progression, leadership opportunities, and institutional policies reflect the needs of all women.
These networks are a driving force behind policy change, regularly engaging with senior leadership and contributing to university-wide strategies on equality, diversity, and inclusion.
Creating an inclusive university is a continuous process of learning, adapting, and evolving. At Westminster, inclusivity is not a static goal but an ongoing commitment to progress. By fostering a culture where all voices are heard, where barriers are identified and dismantled, and where inclusivity is embedded in everyday practice, whilst we shape our institution, we are also contributing to a more equitable and accessible society.
