Effective 1st September 2024
As the CEO of BN1 Arts School, I am acutely aware of the pressing need to address DEI within our institution. Creative Arts education, despite being a vibrant and creative field, has long struggled with issues of representation and inclusivity. This lack of diversity not only limits the range of stories and perspectives shared but also hinders the development of a truly rich and dynamic artistic community.
Historically, Creative Arts education has been underrepresented by certain demographics, leading to a narrow range of voices and experiences being highlighted. This affects the opportunities available and limits the scope of artistic expression and innovation. By recognising and addressing this, we aim to be part of a new narrative with new voices for the Creative Arts industry.
We recognise we can’t solve all problems, however we aspire to always be working toward improvements.
For the Next Academic Year (2024/2025)
We are a very new college, having launched in 2023. We have set three areas of focus that we believe will set the tone for future years.
To work closer with our Students and Staff to identify challenges and work together to improve them.
Develop a comprehensive recruitment strategy and outreach programme. A particular focus will be on improving our recruitment and retention of global majority students and staff.
Work with academics to introduce different perspectives to our course material.
Recognising the complexity and importance of these challenges, we have partnered with an external DEI consultant, Bud Johnston.
Our commitment to DEI is not just about meeting quotas or ticking boxes; We have a genuine aspiration to make improvements that reflect the nuances of our locality and the history of challenges in Creative Arts education.
I am a passionate Social and Environmental Consultant dedicated to creating impactful lasting change through strategic direction. My work with BN1 Arts is deeply personal; As a Brighton born and raised resident I want to be part of the change that ensures our students of today have better experiences. I've seen firsthand the transformative impact of genuine inclusivity through community work I’ve led over the last 4 years. At Boxless, we approach DEI as everyone’s responsibility and include the entire stakeholder sphere in creation and delivery. I am open to suggestions and discussions with those also invested in BN1 Arts and the importance of DEI.
Our commitment to DEI is not just about meeting quotas or ticking boxes; it is about fostering a genuinely inclusive community where all students can thrive and express themselves fully. With the guidance of our fantastic DEI consultant, Bud Johnson, we are confident that BN1 Arts School will become a beacon of diversity and inclusivity in creative arts education, setting a standard for others to follow.
If you'd like to find out more, why not drop us a line?