This award recognises an Initial Teacher Training provider or partnership that has demonstrated a strong and sustained commitment to inclusion, diversity, equity and accessibility within its provision.
The judges are looking for providers who are taking thoughtful, deliberate action to ensure that all trainees (particularly those from underrepresented or disadvantaged backgrounds, or those with additional needs) feel supported, valued and able to thrive.
Submissions should demonstrate:
- A clear and embedded commitment to inclusive practice across recruitment, training, mentoring and assessment;
- How the provider creates an environment where trainees experience a genuine sense of belonging and psychological safety;
- Approaches to recognising and responding to a diverse range of needs, including SEND, wellbeing and wider barriers to participation;
- Evidence of innovation or intentional design in improving equity of access, experience and progression within ITT.
The Judges will be particularly interested in how inclusion is lived out in practice, not just described in policy. This might include:
- How mentors and schools are supported to deliver inclusive training experiences;
- How barriers are identified and reduced for trainees;
- How the provider listens to and responds to the trainee voice, particularly from underrepresented groups.