Access and Equity Statement

At WEA Sydney, we affirm that lifelong learning is a right, not a privilege. After over a century of community education, we champion accessible, high-quality learning opportunities for adult learners from all walks of life, reflecting our founding mission to facilitate access for all who seek to take part in our activities.

Principles of Access and Equity
WEA Sydney is committed to:

Equal opportunity for all learners, regardless of age, gender, cultural background, language, disability, socio-economic status, religion, sexual orientation, or other personal circumstances
Ensuring that entry prerequisites are only used where genuinely required for safe and effective training outcomes
Creating a welcoming, respectful and inclusive learning environment that affirms individual dignity and values diversity
Providing learning opportunities that are responsive to individual learner needs and conducive to personal and professional growth
Upholding relevant anti-discrimination, human rights and equal opportunity principles as part of organisational practice

These principles align with the expectations of the Standards for Registered Training Organisations (RTOs) 2025 and form an integral part of our day-to-day operations.

Fair and Inclusive Access
WEA Sydney:

Ensures that all individuals who express interest in our nationally recognised courses are given accurate information to make informed choices before enrolment
Does not discriminate in enrolment decisions and applies consistent, transparent criteria for selection where prerequisites apply
Considers individual circumstances and provides reasonable adjustments to support participation without compromising the integrity of training outcomes
Provides opportunities for Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) and credit transfer where appropriate

We recognise that some learners may face barriers to participation, and our aim is to remove or reduce those barriers wherever possible.

Supporting Diverse Learner Needs
To promote meaningful access for all:

Learning materials are developed using clear, inclusive language and designed to meet diverse learner needs
Trainers and staff are supported through professional development in inclusive practice, cultural awareness, and adult learning principles
We identify and support learner needs across language, literacy, numeracy and other learning challenges, referring or tailoring support as required
We provide guidance on learning strategies, assistive technologies and other supports that help learners achieve their goals

Learners are encouraged to discuss any support requirements with staff prior to and during their study.

Community Orientation and Respect
Consistent with our heritage as a community education provider, WEA Sydney:

Seeks to foster connection, respect and belonging within our learning environments
Promotes respectful, non-discriminatory conduct among students, staff and trainers
Supports cultural safety and inclusion, particularly for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander learners and other under-represented groups
Provides inclusive spaces where diverse perspectives are welcomed and valued

Policy Integration and Continuous Improvement
This Statement is supported by, and should be read in conjunction with, our:

Enrolment Policy and Procedures
Pre-Training Review Processes
Student Support and Wellbeing Services
Complaints and Appeals Policy
Recognition of Prior Learning Policy
Privacy, Harassment and Anti-Discrimination Policies

WEA Sydney regularly reviews its access and equity practices to ensure they remain effective, responsive and compliant with ASQA’s requirements, relevant legislation and community expectations.