Athena SWAN Charter

The Athena Swan Charter is a framework which is used across the globe to support and transform gender equality within higher education (HE) and research. Established in 2005 to encourage and recognise commitment to advancing the careers of women in science, technology, engineering, maths and medicine (STEMM) employment. In May 2015 the Athena Swan Charter was expanded to recognise work undertaken in arts, humanities, social sciences, business and law (AHSSBL), and in professional and support roles, and for trans staff and students.

Benefits of the Athena SWAN Charter

  • Helps institutions achieve their gender equality objectives
  • Assists institutions to meet equality legislation requirements, as well as the requirements and expectations of some funders and research councils
  • Uses a targeted self-assessment framework to support applicants identify areas for positive action as well as recognise and share good practice
  • Supports the promotion of inclusive working practices that can increase the retention of valued academics and professional and support staff, demonstrating an institution’s commitment to an equitable working environment

What Athena SWAN Covers

Advance Higher Education’s Athena Swan Charter covers all gender identities in:

  • academic roles in STEMM and AHSSBL
  • professional and support staff
  • trans staff and students

In relation to their:

  • representation
  • progression of students into academia
  • journey through career milestones
  • working environment for all staff

MVLS Athena SWAN Awards

Gold Award

Image of Athena SWAN gold logo

The following Schools have achieved the Gold Award in the Athena Swan Charter: