The School of Engineering has received its first Silver Award. The awarding body recognised the School for active work in supporting equality, diversity and inclusion. There was an increase in female representation at professor level, from 2% in 2019/2020 to 12% in 2024/2025. Four out of six roles on our Senior Management Team are held by women, and we have introduced the Elizabeth Georgeson Fellowship for talented under-represented groups. Support for parents and carers has strengthened, including the introduction of an Additional Carers Fund and enhanced facilities. EDI Committee gender balance, student support structures, and culture‑related improvements have been made. Professor Daniel Friedrich, Personal Chair of Energy Systems and Athena Swan Champion, said, This award is testament to the tireless work of countless individuals across the School, and reflects the meaningful strides we continue to make towards an equitable, diverse, and inclusive community. While we can all be proud of this achievement, there is still much to do. I would like to encourage everyone to engage with the Self-Assessment Team and the Athena Swan Action Plan so that we can make our community even better.Established in 2005, Athena Swan provides a robust framework through which institutions and departments work to identify and address barriers to gender equality. The Athena Swan Charter is a globally recognised framework that supports universities and research organisations to advance gender equality, transform culture and create inclusive environments. Related links Athena SWAN Publication date 03 Aug, 2026
