The School of European Culture and Languages has been successful in its application for a Bronze Award under the Athena SWAN Charter. The award will be presented at a ceremony at the University of York on 24 June 2019.

The Athena SWAN Charter was established in 2005 to encourage and recognise commitment to advancing the careers of women in science, technology, engineering, maths and medicine (STEMM) employment in higher education and research. In May 2015 the charter was expanded to recognise work undertaken in arts, humanities, social sciences, business and law (AHSSBL), and in professional and support roles, and for trans staff and students. The charter now recognises work undertaken to address gender equality more broadly, and not just barriers to progression that affect women.

Bronze awards recognise that the School has a solid foundation for eliminating gender bias and developing an inclusive culture that values all staff. This includes initiatives such as working to promote the number of female students on courses, ensuring an even balance of male and female teaching and academic staff, and putting equality policies in place for all staff.

Dr Lubomira Radoilska, Senior Lecturer in Philosophy, Deputy Head of School and Athena Swan lead, said: “The Athena SWAN Bronze Award is an important milestone toward the advancement of gender equality within SECL. The four year Action Plan that this Award supports will guide our continued efforts developing a working and learning culture where everyone feels welcome and respected.”