Eastern Education Group (EEG) has been awarded the Investors in Diversity Silver accreditation by the National Centre for Diversity, following a rigorous process of staff and student surveys, interviews, and cultural audits. The accolade recognises EEG’s long-standing commitment to fostering a fair, respectful, equal, diverse, inclusive, and engaging (FREDIE) culture across its colleges and wider community.
The announcement coincides with an open letter from EEG’s Chief Executive, Dr Nikos Savvas, calling on education leaders to stand firm against the influence of hate and division in the education system. In the letter, Dr Savvas emphasised the importance of defending fundamental British Values within education and society, writing:
“As someone who has given more than a quarter of a century of service to this country to try and make it a better place, I am deeply concerned about growing threats to the fundamental British Values that underpin our education system and wider society.
“In recent weeks, we have witnessed attempts to sow fear and division in our communities, particularly the targeting of migrants and minority groups, and I therefore feel compelled to speak out on behalf of our community.
“Our nation’s greatness has always rested on enduring principles that transcend political divides. Therefore, Eastern Education Group must remain a place where this diversity of thought and experience can flourish. Hatred has no place here – we are an anchor institution, shaping the citizens of tomorrow, and it is our duty to ensure that all of our students feel safe to learn and grow in an environment rooted in fairness, compassion, inclusion, freedom, and hope.”
The FREDIE journey
The Silver Investors in Diversity accreditation places EEG among a select group of UK organisations recognised for excellence in equality, diversity, and inclusion.
The Group’s FREDIE journey began with a pre-assessment in 2023 to identify strengths and areas for development, followed by diagnostic surveys with staff and students in November 2023, and a self-assessment submission in June 2025. These were complemented by staff and student interviews and an independent assessment in June 2025, culminating in final verification on 11 July 2025.
Survey data confirmed tangible progress across a range of key EDI indicators, including participation in EDI training, improved perceptions of fairness in recruitment, and increased belief that EEG is inclusive of all people, regardless of background.
This work was supported by Eastern Education Group’s active EDI Committee, whose year-round programme of events for students and staff helps bring people together, spark conversation and celebrate the many cultures and identities within the community.
Special recognition was given to Ellisha Soanes and Piers Alexander, who played pivotal roles in leading the accreditation process and championing the FREDIE journey across the Group.
Ellisha Soanes, EDI Specialist and Co-director of Aspire Black Suffolk, said:
“I’m thrilled to continue working with Eastern Education Group in achieving the Investors in Diversity Award. This recognition isn’t about ticking boxes – it’s about real accountability and continuing to build a culture where everyone feels genuinely seen, heard and valued.
“The Trust already works closely with our communities, students and staff, and this award gives us even greater momentum to deepen and strengthen that work. It’s more important than ever to champion equity, highlight best practice, and show what meaningful inclusion looks like in action.
Eastern Education Group’s success in achieving Silver Investors in Diversity status reflects not only its internal progress, but also its active role in promoting inclusion and unity through community and student initiatives.
When inclusivity thrives, so too does the community. Earlier this year, one of the Group’s students, originally from Zimbabwe, founded Better Youth UK – a social enterprise empowering young people with limited opportunities to earn money legally and steer clear of crime, drugs, and gang violence.
EEG’s commitment to celebrating cultural identity was also highlighted when BBC Radio Suffolk DJ and broadcaster Angelle Joseph praised One Sixth Form College’s annual ‘Culture Day’, describing it as a chance for young people to “celebrate who they are and where they are from.” The popular event was supported by community partners including Aspire Black Suffolk, Ipswich Museum, Job Centre Plus, Karmartri, Outreach Youth, ISCRE and community leaders, along with Volunteering Matters.
In summer 2025, the Group also hosted a Refugee Picnic as part of Refugee Week, embracing the theme “Community as a Superpower.” The event brought together students and staff at the University and Professional Development Centre in Bury St Edmunds to celebrate connection and cultural diversity. Many attendees were students who have come to the UK as refugees – primarily from Ukraine and Afghanistan – who are now building their English skills and, in many cases, rebuilding their lives. The picnic featured shared food, meaningful conversation, and creative activities such as a woven bracelet workshop, a wishing tree, and a world map where guests marked their home countries – a vivid symbol of the rich diversity within the Group.
Jake Robson, Group Sixth Form Principal and Strategic Lead for EDI, said:
“True equality, diversity and inclusion aren’t just about tackling hatred or prejudice; they’re about celebrating difference and recognising how every background, story and experience adds strength and richness to our community. When people feel safe to be themselves, they bring out the best in one another, and that’s what we strive for every day at Eastern Education Group.
“Across the Group, we see first-hand how diversity fuels creativity and compassion among our students and staff. By embedding these values into everything we do, we’re helping to shape the kind of citizens our society needs – those who lead with kindness and are unafraid to stand up for what’s right.”
Guided by recommendations from the National Centre for Diversity, EEG continues to embed inclusive practices, ensuring all learners and staff thrive in a safe, respectful, and supportive environment.
