Equality and Diversity

At Forth Valley College, we are committed to ensuring that all staff and students can work or study in an environment that is free from discrimination, harassment and victimisation and that everyone can progress equally.

We are guided by the Equality Act 2010 which sets out our responsibilities to:

  • Eliminate discrimination, harassment and victimisation
  • Advance equality of opportunity
  • Promote good relations

This is important for all staff and students. 

In particular, we ensure equality in regards to protected characteristics.

Protected Characteristics

  • Age

  • Race

  • Disability

  • Religion or Belief (including Lack of Belief)

  • Gender Identity

  • Sex

  • Pregnancy and Maternity Status

  • Sexual Orientation 

  • Marriage and Civil Partnership

Creating a Respectful and Inclusive Learning Environment

We are committed to fostering a learning community where everyone feels safe, valued, and respected. Our goal is to maintain an environment free from harassment, bullying, or intimidation of any kind, ensuring that all students and staff can thrive.

By promoting our "RESPECT ALL" ethos, we encourage positive conduct on campus, celebrating diversity, inclusivity, and mutual support. Whether in classrooms, social spaces, or online interactions, every action contributes to a welcoming and supportive college experience.

Together, we can build a culture of respect where everyone has the opportunity to succeed.

Read our Student Charter

We ensure equality by

  • Delivering a learning support service for students with additional support needs

  • Monitoring and resolving hate incidents

  • Supporting students with guidance and welfare including mental health and wellbeing

  • Hosting events and awareness raising activities

  • Monitoring our staff and student profile and ensuring those with protected characteristics progress equally 

  • Including equality and diversity in our courses and staff development activities

  • Ensuring harassment advisers, work positive advisers and counselling services are available to support staff and students

  • Delivering an ongoing 'Respect' campaign across all our campuses

Time4Me Mentoring Programme

In operation since Academic Year 2018/19, Time4Me is an innovative mentoring initiative made possible by funding from The Robertson Trust. The programme represents Forth Valley College’s commitment to widening participation and enhancing educational outcomes for all our students, regardless of personal circumstances. 

To date, Time4Me has supported over 60 young students who are Care Experienced, young carers or reside in regeneration areas, to succeed in their learning journey.

You can find out more about the impact of this project in our Independent Evaluation reports below.

Executive Summary

Final Report

British Sign Language (BSL) Plan 2018-2024 Video

As a college, Forth Valley is committed to inclusivity and this is embedded within our mission, vision and values. Our British Sign Language (BSL) plan outlines our commitment to working towards a future where BSL and tactile BSL users can access all public services in an equal manner to non-BSL users.

British Sign Language (BSL) Plan - 2018-2024