Milton Keynes College Group has been recognised by two national bodies for the efforts it goes to to support employees.
The Group’s good practice and positive approach to diversity and inclusion has landed it the Gold Investors in Diversity mark from the National Centre for Diversity.
Surveys showed 86% of staff feel their diversity is respected in the workplace and 91% feel included by their colleagues. Meanwhile, 72% of students feel that tutors take inclusion and respect seriously and 70% of students say equality and diversity are discussed in their lessons as part of the curriculum.
The Group has also been awarded Menopause Friendly Accreditation by Menopause Friendly UK. The College Group had to undergo an independent assessment of its culture, policies, training regimes etc., to ensure it is actively supporting women at work experiencing menopause.
Henpicked CEO Deborah Garlick, says, “Milton Keynes College Group has shown outstanding leadership in creating a culture where conversations about menopause are open, inclusive and supported by action. They’ve embedded awareness right across the organisation, ensuring practical resources, training and meaningful support are available to everyone. It’s a wonderful example of what being truly Menopause Friendly looks like — putting people first and making lasting change.”
Head of People Development and EDI (Equality, diversity and inclusion), at the Group, Arv Kaushal, says, “We’re really proud of both of these awards, as they show that first and foremost, we try to be a caring, positive employer. The people who work here give a great deal of themselves to provide the best education and training possible, because we believe that’s what our learners deserve. It follows that they themselves also deserve the best support we can give them in return.”
Arv says the thought and effort that have gone into being given these accolades also make commercial sense. “Everyone knows how hard it is to recruit and retain good people in your organisation. Treating them with respect and consideration goes an awful long way towards encouraging people to want to stay. Feeling visible, valued and included where you work is so important.” Iman Essadiki, EDI and People Development Adviser to the Group adds, “This accreditation is not just a badge – it’s a statement that we’re listening, learning, and leading the way in breaking down taboos and supporting our colleagues through every stage of life.”
Solat Chaudhry, Group Chief Executive of National Centre for Diversity UK and Ireland, said: “It has been a true honour to work with Milton Keynes College. Since 2012, the College has shown an unwavering commitment to becoming a College for all its people and its re-accreditation in 2025 as a leader in diversity is a powerful testament to that enduring dedication and consistency.”
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