Polly Bennett
0001-01-01
Pronouns:
they/them.
Introduction/About me:
I am neurodivergent in multiple ways and live with intermittent physical disability. I am also non-binary and queer (they/them) and acknowledge my position as a white settler living on the stolen lands of the Wadawurrung People.
Qualification, Skills, Strengths, Talent:
Outside The Gordon, I work in universities as a teacher and researcher in Social Studies and Education. I help future teachers and social workers foster inclusion and also advocate for their own needs. My research has included co-designing improved services for LGBTIQA+ people and people with disabilities, as well as better working conditions for community workers.
My relationship with education is complex—I am a lifelong learner who loves slow, deep learning but often struggles with formal education. Despite these challenges, I have completed three degrees in policy, media, and social studies, often taking twice as long as other students. I also have a long list of unfinished qualifications!
What are you passionate about?
I am a passionate advocate for disability inclusion and social justice and bring both lived experience and professional expertise to my role on the Co-Creation Committee for Disability and Inclusion.
Why did you join the co-creator team?
As one of the older members of the committee, I am proud to contribute as a past student, having been enrolled at The Gordon in 2024. I joined the committee during my studies to help make TAFE more accessible for students than it has been for me and my peers.
What do you enjoy about being a Co-Creator for the COEDI
Working with The Gordon has been a career highlight, thanks to the incredibly thoughtful and talented committee members, Gordon staff and external consultants I’ve had the joy of collaborating with.
What would you like the COEDI to achieve?
Here’s to a more inclusive and accessible tertiary education sector!