Kingston University

Using a value added metric and an inclusive curriculum framework to address the BME attainment gap

Led by Kingston University, this project aims to extend the value added metric and inclusive curriculum framework currently used to address the black and minority ethnic (BME) attainment gap.

This collaborative project builds on existing good practice within institutions to address the black and minority ethnic (BME) attainment gap.

Kingston’s successful institutional approach to reducing the BME attainment gap is founded on two interconnected innovative action-oriented interventions: a value added (VA) metric and the inclusive curriculum framework (ICF).

The VA metric powerfully highlights differences in attainment which cannot be explained by student entry qualifications or the subject of study. This is a tool which moves discussions beyond the student deficit model, leading to effective action and cultural change.

The user-friendly ICF ensures success for all students through three principles that require the curriculum:

• to be accessible
• to reflect students’ backgrounds
• to prepare them to positively contribute to a global and diverse workplace.

This collaboration will provide the sector with systematic and strategic initiatives to address the gap by:

• validating initiatives recognised by the sector as good practice through key partners
• replicating methodologies and training staff in the collaboration
• transmitting and embedding these in existing institutional mechanisms and quality assurance
• identifying the conditions which need to be in place to ensure these initiatives contribute to student success
• identifying key partner initiatives that can enhance the VA and ICF.