Athena Swan within the School of Geography, Earth and Environmental Science

Introduction to Athena Swan in the School of Geography, Earth and Environmental Science
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Athena Swan is a national Charter designed to advance gender equality in higher education. The Charter is necessary in order to tackle a worrying trend whereby women continue to be underrepresented at senior levels in academia. In April 2016, the School of Geography, Earth and Environmental Science received an Athena Swan Bronze departmental Award; this recognises that the School has undertaken a thorough review of gender disparities among the student and staff community together with a plan for advancing greater equality. 
Athena Swan Bronze Award holders need to have demonstrated that they have undertaken a comprehensive ‘self-assessment’ process. This involves a extensive data analysis and department-wide consultation in order to review every stage of the academic career pathway, from student recruitment through to academic promotions. The work of the SoGEES self-assessment team seeks to promote good practice to the benefit all staff and students. 

Equality, Diversity and Inclusion Committee

The committee is made up of academic, technical, research, professional services staff and student representatives. We support the embedding of equality and diversity across the School’s functions and strategies, develop school-led initiatives and work towards equality charter submissions such as Athena Swan. We are committed to promoting EDI principles, ensuing an inclusive learning environment, and preventing discrimination and harassment within the School.
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The Women's Network

The University of Plymouth 'Women's Network' was established in 2015 to support staff by providing a forum for discussion, debate, networking, mutual support and individual development, with activities and events for women including peer coaching, mentoring and support. It also provides a unified voice to help raise the issues that women face in their careers.
The Women's Network contact in SoGEES is Dr Kim Ward.
The University's Women in Science
Kat Hagger