Celebrating equity, diversity and inclusion at EDI Week

Monday 31st of March marked the start of our college-wide Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion (EDI) Week. Students were invited to attend a series of events taking place across the college in an effort to explore different cultures and provide supportive spaces for all members of our community.  

The week began with EDI Curriculum Day, where all classes incorporated EDI discussions into their lessons. Our level 2 catering students took part in a West African workshop, where they learned how to cook Jollof Rice and Jerk Chicken, both popular dishes in West Africa and the Caribbean. 

Our students also experienced a special menu in the canteen every lunchtime, allowing our learners to try various foods from different cultures and providing an inclusive culinary experience for all. The EDI menu featured traditional Greek food such as halal doner kebab and Papoutsakia, a variety of Indian food such as chickpea curry and samosas and a ‘Best of British’ menu, including fish and chips and battered sausages.  

On Tuesday, students took part in a dedicated session on Mental Wellbeing in the classroom, exploring compassionate practices, reflecting on equality and diversity throughout the academic year and incorporating these vital themes into their lessons. They also focused on understanding trauma-informed activities and self-regulation, such as creating their own lavender bags, which can help students feel calm and remain mindful when in and out of their lessons. The session also touched upon our sustainable development goals and the celebration of cultural events, with a particular emphasis on Eid-al-Fitr.  

Wednesday welcomed Brooklands Pride, a joyful celebration of diversity and an opportunity for our LGBTQIA+ students and allies to connect, celebrate their identities, and enjoy music in a supportive environment. Students benefited from LGBTQIA+ advice and guidance, a Mario Kart competition, a photo booth and other activities such as cupcake decorating. The feedback received from our LGBTQIA+ celebrations were overwhelmingly positive, with students stating, ‘it’s the best thing Brooklands has ever done’. 

On Thursday, the college hosted a Gypsy, Roma & Traveller Workshop in collaboration with The Traveller Movement. This session provided valuable information on Gypsy, Roma, and Traveller history and language and introduced learners to Gypsy, Roma and Traveller music. 

Later in the afternoon, our safeguarding team offered our learners a chance to unwind with a Mindfulness Afternoon in the Main Hall. Students engaged in a range of activities from mindfulness colouring, board games and had the opportunity to make their own fidget toys.  Special guests included Rosie Barron, a Dance Teacher who discussed the positive impact of movement on mental health, and Connor Patterson, a Professional MMA Mixed Martial Artist, who shared his experiences of improving mental well-being through mixed martial arts and provided sparring sessions with our students. 

Friday celebrated Ability Day which provided students with advice and guidance from the National Autistic Society and explored effective support strategies for learning. Students participated in sensory activities and SEND-friendly games, which featured disability awareness competitions. It was a valuable opportunity to learn more about neurodiversity and different abilities within the college community. 

Equity, diversity and inclusion Week proved to be an enriching and enjoyable experience for all involved. The college was delighted by the active participation of students and staff in these fantastic events who came together to celebrate our diverse community and foster an even more inclusive and equitable future. Special thanks to our EDI committee for planning the week’s activities and pulling everyone together for a truly unforgettable week at Brooklands Technical College.