University of Exeter partnership aims to boost social justice in higher education

The University of Exeter is working with social justice organisation Black Leadership Group to boost inclusion in higher education.

Exeter is the first university to affiliate with the group, which describes itself as the "authoritative voice" of antiracism in further and higher education.

As part of the partnership, training will be given to the university's student access, recruitment and admissions staff to help drive forward improvements to boost inclusion, fair access and social mobility.

Nicola Sinclair, head of access, participation and outreach at Exeter, said the partnership would give "all students the best possible experience" as they engaged with the university and make decisions about their future and throughout the application process.

"The training will help build the confidence of our staff to encourage inclusion, while shaping the nature of our service and the support we provide," she said.

University of Exeter staff will also be working with partner further education colleges to support the progression of students to Exeter through dedicated outreach, and to share insights into how to better support students through recruitment and transition.

The partnership was agreed after Black Leadership Group's Robin Landman OBE and Dr Arun Verma were speakers at a conference at the university last year.

Mr Landman said: “In just three years we have grown our affiliate community to more than 60 organisations across education and the public and private sector.

“We hope that the new relationship with the University of Exeter will provide a route into more university communities where students arriving from overseas, and those experiencing new independent living for the first time can be confident in a welcoming and supportive environment that supports diversity and celebrates it.

“We are delighted that the first training sessions with the university team, using innovative and experiential approaches to antiracist practice have been so well received and embraced by all participants.”

Professor Rajani Naidoo, University of Exeter vice-president and deputy vice-chancellor (people and culture), added: "We are very proud to be the first university to be affiliated with the Black Leadership Group.

"Not only will we at the University of Exeter learn a great deal from the Black Leadership Group, but this affiliation will also strengthen our relationships with further education colleges.

"We have embarked on a journey at the University of Exeter to diversify our staff and student community and develop an inclusive culture and inclusive education and practice."