OpenSKY Academy – Equality, Diversity & Inclusion (EDI) Policy
1. Policy Statement
At OpenSKY Academy, we believe in the power of opportunity for all. We are committed to promoting equality, diversity, and inclusion (EDI) in every aspect of our work — from how we treat our staff, partners and learners to the content we deliver globally.
As a UK-registered education and technology provider with an international reach, we recognise that embracing diverse perspectives strengthens our ability to innovate, educate, and create lasting social and economic impact. Our commitment to EDI underpins our mission to train the next generation of aircraft maintenance engineers, regardless of their background, identity, or life stage.
2. Legal and Statutory Framework
This policy is aligned with the Equality Act 2010 and other relevant UK legislation, including but not limited to:
- The Human Rights Act 1998
- The Employment Rights Act 1996
- The Public Sector Equality Duty (where applicable)
- The Special Educational Needs and Disability Act 2001
- General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) – where related to processing sensitive personal data
We also strive to align with international best practices on human rights and inclusive education, in recognition of our global learner community.
3. Our Commitment
We commit to:
- Treating everyone with dignity and respect, free from unlawful discrimination, harassment, or victimisation
- Providing equal opportunities for employment, training, and development
- Creating inclusive, accessible, and culturally responsive learning environments
- Proactively identifying and addressing barriers to participation and progression
- Listening to and learning from our learners, partners, and staff to improve our practice
4. Protected Characteristics
We oppose all forms of unlawful discrimination based on the nine protected characteristics set out in the Equality Act 2010:
- Age
- Disability
- Gender reassignment
- Marriage and civil partnership
- Pregnancy and maternity
- Race (including colour, nationality, and ethnic or national origin)
- Religion or belief
- Sex
- Sexual orientation
We also recognise the importance of socioeconomic background, neurodiversity, and caring responsibilities in shaping people’s opportunities and experiences.
5. Diversity and Global Inclusion
As an education provider with international reach, OpenSKY Academy acknowledges the importance of cultural awareness and global inclusion. We commit to:
- Representing a wide range of voices, identities, and perspectives in our course content
- Adapting delivery models to suit diverse educational, technological, and linguistic needs
- Supporting learners from both digitally advanced and digitally underserved regions
- Promoting inclusive aviation practices through our training and partnerships
6. Working Culture and Staff Conduct
Although we are a small team, we are committed to cultivating a respectful and inclusive working environment where:
- All staff are supported to grow, learn, and lead
- Flexible working arrangements are available wherever possible
- Roles are advertised with inclusive, bias-free language
- Discrimination or harassment is not tolerated in any form
- Concerns can be raised confidentially and are addressed swiftly and fairly
All employees, contractors, and partners are expected to uphold these values.
7. Inclusive Learning and Support
We design and deliver training that:
- Reflects the diversity of the global aviation workforce
- Is accessible to learners with disabilities or specific learning needs
- Encourages peer-to-peer learning, mentorship, and cross-cultural exchange
- Provides alternative formats, flexible pacing, and multiple entry points for learners
We regularly review learner data (e.g. enrolment, progression, completion) to identify disparities and improve our support systems.
8. Monitoring, Review and Accountability
We will:
- Review this policy at least annually
- Collect and analyse EDI data where appropriate and legally compliant
- Use feedback from learners and staff to improve our policies and practices
- Report transparently on EDI goals, outcomes, and actions
The Managing Director has overall responsibility for ensuring the implementation of this policy.
9. Specific Actions
To embed EDI in everything we do, OpenSKY Academy will:
- Provide ongoing EDI awareness training for staff and collaborators
- Promote flexible and inclusive working practices
- Collaborate with diverse suppliers and subject matter experts
- Monitor recruitment and learner participation for fairness and access
- Include global, gender-balanced, and culturally diverse role models in our content
- Celebrate awareness days and global inclusion initiatives
10. Raising Concerns
OpenSKY Academy takes all concerns regarding equality, diversity, and inclusion seriously. Any individual who feels they have experienced or witnessed discriminatory behaviour is encouraged to contact us directly and in confidence.