Solihull College & University Centre is proud to announce the renewal of its Rainbow Flag Award, a prestigious national recognition for its commitment to positive LGBT+ inclusion and visibility.

Originally awarded in September 2021, the College has continued to take meaningful strides to ensure it remains an inclusive and supportive space for all students.

The Rainbow Flag Award is a national quality assurance framework that celebrates educational providers’ dedication to LGBT+ inclusion. To achieve the award, institutions must demonstrate excellence across six key areas: skilled teaching, supportive parents and governors, effective policies, inclusive curriculum, pastoral support, and student voice.

Student EDI & Enrichment Manager, Grace Wynne Willson, expressed her pride in the achievement: “We are thrilled to see our Rainbow Flag Award renewed. This recognition highlights the College’s dedication to creating a safe and inclusive environment for all our students. It reflects the hard work of our staff and the incredible contributions of our students, particularly those involved in our Pride Club and enrichment events.”

“I admire the number of opportunities your young people have to celebrate LGBT+ identities…”

 

 Notable feedback from the Rainbow Flag Award report

Since first receiving the award, the College has built on its success, launching initiatives that empower students and embed inclusivity throughout its culture. This year, Student Enrichment Officer, Sam Bansal, led an impactful presentation about enrichment events and support for LGBT+ students, alongside colleague Sasha Georgieva and members of the vibrant Pride Club. The Pride Club was described during the Rainbow Flag audit as a “safe space where you can be yourself,” a testimony to the College’s commitment to fostering belonging and authenticity.

“Your Pride Club looks a joy to be a part of. It was fantastic to hear it described as a “safe space where you can be yourself” and that you are providing a space where students can ask any questions they might have.”

 

 Notable feedback from the Rainbow Flag Award report

Student Voice has been at the forefront of the College’s work. The audit commended the College for ensuring students’ perspectives are heard at the highest levels of leadership. One standout initiative involved creating a consistent opportunity for student executive team members to provide feedback directly to the Senior Leadership Team (SLT), ensuring that student voices drive meaningful change.

The College’s outreach efforts were also highly praised. From engaging social media campaigns led by the enrichment team to the visible presence of the LGBT+ Officer and other student representatives at open days and freshers’ events, the College has highlighted its ongoing commitment to creating a respectful environment where everyone can bring their authentic selves to college life.

“Your setting is a safe and respectful place that supports you in bringing your whole self to college.”

 

 Notable feedback from the Rainbow Flag Award report

Reflecting on this achievement, Grace added: “The feedback from the Rainbow Flag Award highlights so much of what makes our College special. It’s fantastic to see our students’ contributions celebrated, and this award inspires us to continue building an environment where every student feels valued and supported.”

The College remains committed to maintaining and expanding its efforts to promote equality, diversity, and inclusion, ensuring that every student, regardless of their identity, feels empowered to thrive.