Modern Slavery Statement for Education Training Collective
Introduction
Education Training Collective (Etc.) is committed to preventing modern slavery and human trafficking in all areas of our operations and supply chains. We recognise our responsibility to take a proactive approach to ensure that modern slavery, in any form, is not tolerated. This statement outlines the steps we have taken and will continue to take to uphold this commitment.
This statement is made pursuant to section 54(1) of the Modern Slavery Act 2015 and relates to the financial year [insert financial year].
Our Organisation and Supply Chains
Etc. is a group of educational institutions across the Tees Valley, including Bede Sixth Form College, NETA Training, Innersummit, Redcar and Cleveland College, Stockton Riverside College and Skills Academy. We provide a wide range of educational services, proudly serving our students, communities, and businesses.
Our supply chains include procurement of goods and services such as IT equipment, educational materials, facilities management, professional services, and catering. We are committed to working with suppliers and contractors who share our values in combating modern slavery and upholding ethical business practices.
Our Values and Commitment
At Etc., we are high performing, with heart. We are confident, with absolute focus on success, and we strive to raise aspiration and ambition, improving opportunities and life chances. These values underpin our commitment to preventing modern slavery and human trafficking.
We fully support the aims of the Modern Slavery Act 2015 and take a zero-tolerance approach to any form of slavery, servitude, forced labour, or human trafficking. We are dedicated to promoting fair and ethical practices throughout our organisation and supply chains.
Due Diligence Processes
We have implemented robust due diligence processes to identify and address risks related to modern slavery and human trafficking:
· Supplier Vetting: We thoroughly vet all suppliers to ensure compliance with the Modern Slavery Act 2015.
· Supplier Contracts: Our contracts include clauses requiring compliance with the Modern Slavery Act 2015.
· Risk Assessments: We regularly assess our supply chains to identify potential modern slavery risks.
Training and Awareness
We provide training to staff, particularly those involved in procurement and supply chain management, to raise awareness of modern slavery issues. We also promote awareness through internal communications, highlighting our policy and reporting mechanisms.
Reporting and Monitoring
We have established clear procedures for reporting concerns related to modern slavery. Our safeguarding and whistleblowing policies provide guidance for staff and stakeholders to raise concerns confidentially and without fear of retaliation.
We regularly monitor and review our modern slavery compliance measures to ensure their effectiveness.
Ongoing Commitment
We are committed to continuous improvement in our approach to addressing modern slavery. We will:
· Review and update our modern slavery policies and practices annually.
· Strengthen partnerships with suppliers to ensure they meet our ethical standards.
· Enhance staff training on modern slavery risks and reporting mechanisms.
· Engage with industry partners and external experts to remain informed of best practices.
Approval
This statement has been approved by the governing body of the Education Training Collective and is signed by the Chief Executive and Group Principal.
This statement affirms our ongoing commitment to combatting modern slavery and upholding human rights in all aspects of our work and partnerships, reflecting our values of being high performing with heart and our dedication to serving our students, communities, and businesses.
Signed by Chief Executive and Group Principal: Grant Glendinning
Date: December 2024