Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion Policy

1. Purpose

This policy states American Professional School’s (APS) commitment to equality, diversity, and inclusion in the design, delivery, and assessment of its competency-based education (CBE) professional credential programs. It supports fair access for experienced professionals and promotes inclusive practice across the Professional, Master, and Executive pathways.

2. Scope

This policy applies to all APS activities involving learners, including recruitment and enrollment, program content, delivery, assessment, credential decisions, and related communications. It also applies to APS staff and contractors involved in these activities.

3. Commitment

APS is committed to providing a learning environment in which individuals are treated fairly and with respect, regardless of background. APS does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, age, disability, religion, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable law.

APS seeks to:

  • Offer fair access to its professional credential programs
  • Design and deliver learning that is inclusive and relevant to a diverse professional audience
  • Apply assessment criteria consistently and without bias
  • Address barriers to participation through reasonable adjustments and accessible practices

4. Fair Access and Non-Discrimination

Enrollment decisions are based on the published eligibility criteria for each credential pathway (typically relevant professional experience and readiness to demonstrate competency). These criteria are applied consistently.

APS does not impose requirements or make decisions that unlawfully discriminate against any protected group. Information about programs, eligibility, and application processes is made available in a clear and accessible manner.

5. Inclusive Content, Delivery, and Assessment

APS aims to reflect inclusive practice in the following areas:

  • Content: Learning materials and examples are reviewed for relevance, accuracy, and avoidance of unnecessary bias or exclusionary assumptions. Content is designed to be professionally applicable across a range of workplace contexts.
  • Delivery: Program guidance, communications, and any facilitation are conducted in a respectful and professional manner. Learners are expected to engage with APS staff in the same spirit.
  • Assessment: Competency criteria are applied consistently. Assessment tasks and evidence requirements are designed to allow learners to demonstrate the required capabilities without unnecessary barriers. Reasonable adjustments are available in accordance with the Learner Support and Reasonable Adjustments Policy.

6. Accessibility and Inclusive Practice

APS considers accessibility in the design of learning materials and platform use where practical. Learners who require adjustments due to disability or other needs are encouraged to request them through the process described in the Learner Support and Reasonable Adjustments Policy. APS will work with the learner to identify reasonable solutions that maintain the integrity of the competency standards.

7. Responsibilities

  • Operations Manager: Overall responsibility for this policy, including periodic review and ensuring that practices align with the stated commitment.
  • Staff and contractors involved in enrollment, content development, delivery, or assessment: Apply this policy in their work and raise any concerns about potential barriers or inconsistent treatment.
  • Learners: Engage respectfully and raise any concerns about access, treatment, or inclusion through the appropriate channels (Learner Support or the Complaints and Feedback Procedure).

8. Raising Concerns

Concerns related to equality, diversity, inclusion, or discrimination may be raised through the Complaints and Feedback Procedure. Such concerns will be handled promptly, confidentially, and without retaliation against anyone who raises them in good faith.

9. Monitoring and Continuous Improvement

APS reviews enrollment patterns, learner feedback, complaints, and adjustment requests periodically as part of its quality assurance processes. Findings are used to identify and address any unintended barriers and to improve inclusive practice in content, delivery, and assessment.

10. Review of This Policy

This policy is reviewed at least annually by the Operations Manager to ensure it remains effective, practical, and aligned with APS operations and applicable legal requirements. Updates are version-controlled and communicated to relevant staff.