Inclusive education
“Education where every student feels welcome.”
Inclusive education means that every student feels at home at the university, college or vocational school. It is about more than access, it is about being able to truly participate. A safe learning environment, room for diversity and education that adapts to the student, not the other way around.
Diversity as a starting point
In inclusive education, diversity is the norm. Students with and without support needs are taken into account from the very beginning. Think of students with a disability, psychological vulnerability, care responsibilities or other challenges. Education is designed with this in mind – flexible, accessible and inviting.
The educational institution as a building block for an inclusive society
Education is where young people work together, learn to deal with differences and prepare for society. This is where encounters occur between students from diverse backgrounds, cultures and experiences. The educational institution is thus an important building block for an inclusive society.
What makes education inclusive?
Whether students feel seen and supported depends on several factors within the institution. Consider, for example:
- Accessible buildings and digital learning environments
- Flexible schedules and customized study planning
- Availability of help and guidance
- Clear communication and supportive teachers
- Support for transition to internship or work
All parts of the educational process must be accessible so that every student can learn, grow and participate. A useful guide for this are the eight elements of inclusion.
The UN convention as a compass
“From medical to social thinking”
The UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities gives you a clear framework for shaping inclusive education. It’s all about dignity, autonomy and equal opportunity. The convention helps you move from the medical model (the disability lies with the student) to the social model (the environment must be accessible). By signing the declaration of intent UN Disability Convention, you join the mbo or hbo/wo working group. There you will learn from other institutions, share experiences and work together on structural solutions.
