Equity, Equality, Diversity and Inclusion: Bridging Gaps in Access and Participation

Abstract

There is growing recognition of the importance of equity/equality, diversity and inclusion (EDI) in higher education (HE). Sector-wide there are significant gaps between certain groups of students due to inequalities, and in some cases, these are growing year on year. To tackle these challenges, the HE sector in England is trying to embrace EDI and to widen access and participation through Access and Participation Plans (APPs). This article outlines how one university in England, the University of West London, uses its APP to create opportunities to inspire potential and current students to achieve their goals regardless of their background, identity, and/or lived experiences by ensuring cultural harmony across the student lifecycle where equality and equity co-exists. Through developing its APP in partnership with students, known as Equality Champions, the university seeks assure a diversity of thoughts and voice foster a sense of belonging, promote collaboration and innovation and enhance diverse learning and education.