National Day for Staff Networks 2024

Explore Learning
07 May 2024
X min read

Today we are celebrating National Day for Staff Networks. We launched our networks at the start of 2022 and are proud of how they continue to evolve and play an important part in driving Explore forwards.

What is a staff network?

Staff networks are a place for Explore employees to discuss their views, experiences, share ideas and initiatives and make social connections at work. Insights from each group are used to help shape Explore’s future and improve Diversity and Inclusion at all levels.

The networks are based around social identities of our employees, so each business will have different networks, depending on the make-up of the organisation. We now have six employee networks At Explore Learning and expect more to emerge over time:

Mental Health
LGBTQ+
Neurodiversity & ability
Ethnic diversity
Parents and carers
Faith

Why we have staff networks

Social

Create a sense of community in the workplace (a space where members can feel at ease)
Regular meetings throughout the year
Out of work social events
Education of own community-sharing experiences

Advocacy

Raising awareness throughout Explore Learning
Increasing the visibility of internal resources
Sharing stories
Safe and supportive space for discussion

Company development

Help to solve business issues
Feedback on initiatives and business proposals
Strong Contribution to employee voice scheme, shaping the future of Explore

Who is part of the networks?

All our networks are open to all staff across Explore who share these experiences or characteristics – this includes tutors, salaried managers, and our central team. Therefore, it’s a great way to build connections with others within the business. Each network has its own coordinator who is responsible for setting up group meetings and events, as well as feeding back any suggestions the group have made to the Diversity and Inclusion working group.

What our staff have to say about networks

"Being in a network has given me connections to more people than I could ever meet day to day. We have a voice together and we support each other, as well as socialise!"

Morgan (Curriculum Author)

Staff networks can play an important role in supporting the goals of the organisation, by providing feedback on policies and procedures, contributing to decision-making processes, and promoting Explore Learning's values and mission.

Sophie (AD)

Our networks at Explore Learning provide a safe space to meet new people with similar experiences to build supportive connections. We also hold scheduled meetings to discuss how Explore Learning can commemorate events relevant to each network and also what we would like from Explore Learning in terms of support.

Kelsey (Curriculum Author & Tutor)

Why our staff networks are important to us

Our networks are important to us because they make sure our staff keep sharing their experiences and continue having conversations about what is working well and what needs improving. We are committed to listen, learn, and make active change for our members and employees, with the aim of making Explore a welcoming, inclusive environment for everyone.