Equality, diversity and inclusion
The School of Literature and Languages is committed to equality, diversity and inclusion (EDI) and the advancement of anti-discriminatory practices in relation to all aspects of teaching and research. We believe that the study of languages, linguistics, literatures, creative writing and translation should be open to all.
Overview
Equality, diversity and inclusion in the School of Literature and Languages shares the University of Surrey’s commitment to:
- Equal opportunities
- A diverse and inclusive culture
- Eradicating discrimination
- Eliminating harassment and bullying.
This applies to staff, students, alumni and everyone associated with the School, regardless of age, disability, gender reassignment, marriage and civil partnership, pregnancy and maternity, race, religion or belief, sex and sexual orientation.
EDI Committee
The EDI Committee identifies, discusses and progresses equality, diversity and inclusivity issues within the School, its research, and the curricula. It organises training events and shares best practice.
Chair
Professor Diane Watt
Professor of English Literature and Associate Head of School, Research and Innovation
Staff
Dr Liz Bahs
Senior Lecturer in Creative Writing; Programme Director for BA English Literature and / with Creative Writing
Dr Oliver Bond
Reader in Linguistics
Dr Gabriele Lazzari
Lecturer in Contemporary Literature
Dr Lena Mattheis
Lecturer in Contemporary Literature
Dr Amy Morgan
Lecturer in Medieval Literature
Shihong Turner
Lecturer in Chinese
Students
Deborah Davies
Postgraduate Research Student
Frances Hallam
Postgraduate Research Student
Juwayriyah Hussain
Undergraduate Student
Stephen Newell
Postgraduate Research Student
Beth Roberts
Postgraduate Research Student
What we have done
Since 2020, we have been working on making the School of Literature and Languages more diverse and inclusive. So far we have:
- Set up a working group on 'Further Decolonizing the Curriculum' which includes student focus groups
- Committed to an ongoing process of regularly reviewing our curriculum to ensure its inclusivity
- Organised Antiracism Training led by Maxine Thomas-Assante for the teaching teams in English and in Languages
- Organised a staff forum on Teaching Sensitive Topics
- Organised staff follow-up sessions on antiracism.
Awards
Equality, diversity and inclusion at Surrey
We champion the equality, diversity and inclusion agendas to highlight our successes and push for improvement in our weaknesses.