Colleges reaffirm commitment to inclusion and belonging with new charter
24/03/2026All Colleges in Wales have reaffirmed their commitment to creating an environment where people feel a sense of belonging, putting equity and inclusion at the heart of their approach to education and training.
Rooted in the Welsh concept of Cynefin, the charter establishes a vision for colleges to be places of respect where individuals feel safe to be their authentic selves. The Charter outlines a foundational belief that a sense of Cynefin is essential for well-being, safety, happiness, and academic or professional success. By celebrating the unique cultural and linguistic identity of Wales, the document ensures the Welsh language and local heritage remain central to an inclusive institutional culture.
Moving beyond intentions, the Charter mandates rigorous measurement of success, with progress being evaluated through clear objectives, monitored at the Board level and published annually.
Chief Executive of Colegau Cymru, David Hagendyk, said,
The launch of the Cynefin Charter marks a defining moment for further education in Wales. In our nation, Cynefin is more than just a word; it is the profound connection between a person and the place where they feel they truly belong. By formalising this Charter, we are ensuring that this sense of belonging is not left to chance, but is instead woven into the very fabric of our institutional DNA.
Chair of the Governing Body of Bridgend College, Emma Adamson, said,
Fully aligned to the College’s organisational values and the pillars of our strategic plan, the Cynefin Charter reaffirms our commitment to ensuring that our campuses are spaces where every individual feels they truly belong and can thrive. By formalising this commitment at a board level, we are taking responsibility for cultivating a culture of respect and supportive action. This Charter reinforces our mission to be a leading inclusive employer and place of education, ensuring that equity is woven into the very fabric of how we grow as an organisation.
Principal and CEO of Bridgend College, Viv Buckley, said,
Our strategic plan is built on the belief that our people are at the heart of everything we do. The Cynefin Charter aligns with our commitment to being truly people-centred; it is about ensuring our students and staff feel safe, heard, and empowered to be their authentic selves, through a profound sense of connection and belonging.
