Ayr College Hosts Ayrshire Equality Partnership Event

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Ayr College threw open its doors this week to host a unique partnership event to celebrate equality and diversity in Ayrshire.

The first Ayrshire Equality Partnership Event brought together staff and students from Ayr College, Kilmarnock College and James Watt College, as well as representatives from all the Ayrshire Councils and invited guests from the Ayrshire community to discuss how best to promote equality in Ayrshire.

Speakers on the day included representatives from Strathclyde Police, Equality Forward, Tibetan Monks, Women’s Aid Scotland, the Red Cross, Stonewall Scotland and the Royal National Institute for the Deaf. Delegates also attended various workshops which focused on issues including race and religion, gender, age and disability. A group of students who have disabilities also gave a presentation on their learning experiences at Ayr College.

Shelagh McLachlan, Ayr College’s Marketing and PR Manager, said: “Ayr College is firmly committed to the principles of equality and to spreading these values both locally and nationally.

We were thrilled that so many experts in equality issues were at the event to lead the discussions. We designed the day to be informative and entertaining and we have had very positive feedback from those who attended. I’m sure that the event will continue to flourish each year and become a highlight in the college’s calendar.”

The day ended with the ‘One World’ cultural event, featuring belly dancing and African dancing workshops, as well as performances from Scottish, Italian and Polish singers.

Ayr College Principal Diane Rawlinson said: “Through our equality schemes and action plans, we aim to promote equality for all students and staff and we continuously review our culture, core values, policies and procedures to ensure that they promote behaviours and attitudes which combat discrimination.

“We take pride in our educational and working environment where all individuals are treated fairly and can participate fully and equally. Events like this are also important in building partnerships with community organisations and local authorities.”

For more information on upcoming events or courses available at Ayr College please visit www.ayrcoll.ac.uk