DN Colleges Group is proud to have signed the AoC’s Equity, Diversity and Inclusion Charter.

Karen Dainty Associate Director EDI confirmed that on 20 September 2024, DNCG signed up to the AoC Equity, Diversity and Inclusion Charter which is a national initiative for the further education (FE) sector in England. Karen stated that ‘We have given our commitment and will take action to foster a sense of belonging amongst all of our students and staff at DNCG. We have agreed that we will adopt a collaborative effort to advance equity, diversity, and inclusion’.

The charter encourages us to provide equity by creating an inclusive culture and value diversity by making it central to all of our policies and practices. Karen outlined that this would be achieved by developing an enhanced DNCG EDI Plan that incorporates the AoC EDI Charter which includes, setting organisational objectives, identifying short and medium-term success measures, and publicising progress annually.

In line with this commitment, DN Colleges Group are pleased to announce the appointment of Dr. Karen Dainty as the new Associate Director of Equality, Diversity and Inclusion (EDI). Karen, is an experienced and passionate leader in EDI. Karen is eager to drive impactful change within the college community, promoting diversity and fostering an inclusive environment where every voice is heard and valued. She brings a deep commitment to embedding equality, diversity, and inclusion across all areas of college life.

“I’m incredibly excited to take on this role and to work across all of the departments at DNCG. EDI is more than just a strategy to me; it is about creating an environment where everyone feels safe, respected, and empowered to reach their full potential. At DN Colleges, we will celebrate the diversity of our staff and students, and actively champion it through innovative and engaging initiatives.” Karen Dainty

Karen will be developing an enhanced EDI Plan that incorporates the AoC EDI Charter and the Inclusion Employers: Six Pillars of Diversity and Inclusion, to create exciting initiatives, such as, Cultural Awareness Workshops; the introduction of special interest staff led forums and staff networks; staff related EDI projects. The EDI awareness events, workshops and celebrations are to promote inclusivity and to help foster a sense of belonging for all of staff and to advance equality, diversity and inclusion.

Karen’s appointment signals DN Colleges Group’s commitment to becoming a leader in creating an equitable and inclusive environment. Her strategic approach will help to celebrate the richness of diversity among our staff and students and to ensure that DN Colleges continues to grow as a welcoming and inclusive institution.