Equality and non-discrimination at the Adult Education Centre of the Tampere Region

The Adult Education Centre of the Tampere Region is a diverse learning environment where people of different ages, abilities, and backgrounds come together to study.

Each of us is unique. Our characteristics include age, ethnic origin, nationality, language and culture, religion, beliefs, opinions, political views, family structure, gender identity, sexual orientation, health status, disability, social status, economic status, and other individual factors, such as body size or being part of the neurodivergent spectrum.

The Adult Education Centre of the Tampere Region is also committed to the City of Tampere’s safer space principles.

Principles for a safer space in the Adult Education Centre of the Tampere Region

We understand that each of us is unique.
We treat everyone with respect and equality, regardless of their background, gender, age, ethnicity, religion, sexual orientation, or other personal characteristics.
We also respect ourselves and value our learning and work.

In our adult education centre, everyone sets their own boundaries.
We do not make assumptions. We do not let our preconceptions influence how we treat other people.
We respect what each person chooses to share about themselves.
We handle students’ personal information confidentially and do not share it without permission.

During the course, we agree on a common set of ground rules that all participants agree to.
We ask for permission before touching: "May I show you?" "May I touch you?" "Would you like a hug?"
We also give space to those who are quiet or do not wish to participate in the conversation.
We always ask for permission from everyone present before taking a photo.

We pay attention to our choice of words.
We give constructive feedback and support each other's ideas.
We use respectful and appropriate language in our discussions during the courses.
In an atmosphere of trust, we dare to speak our minds.
In the courses, we promote the flow of accurate information, and prevent the spread of incorrect information.

We can make mistakes and apologise.
We encourage cooperation and support one another. Together, we can create a positive and encouraging learning environment.
In our courses, the teacher takes into account the different needs of the students.
We give each student the space to express their opinion without fear of judgment.

In our operation, we take into account the values of the adult education centre and sustainable development: interpersonalism, awareness of consequences and fairness.
We use positive and encouraging language. We avoid sarcasm and offensive expressions.
We create an environment where everyone feels safe and welcome.
We encourage open discussion and actively listening to others’ views.
We also speak respectfully of those who are not present.
We respect others by taking collective responsibility for the facilities and leaving them in good condition for the next users.

We take responsibility for our own behaviour and encourage others to do the same.
The adult education centre has a zero-tolerance policy towards harassment and discrimination.
We report safety-related concerns to the appropriate authorities.

Principles for a safer space poster – The Adult Education Centre of the Tampere Region

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Did you encounter inappropriate behaviour?

The Adult Education Centre of the Tampere Region's principles for a safer space ensure that everyone has the right to a safe space for learning and working during courses and events.

If you experience inappropriate behavior or harassment during a course or activity, we encourage you to report it to the Centre’s staff. They are there to support and assist you in any situation involving harassment.
If you witness someone behaving inappropriately or violating the safer space principles, let them know that their behavior is not acceptable. Please also inform the teacher about what you observed.
You can also report incidents to the Centre’s designated harassment contact person: Anne Partanen, assistant principal. If she is unavailable, you may contact her deputy Tuula Vatanen, assistant Principal. You can reach them by email using the format: [email protected]. Phone numbers are provided at the bottom of this page.
You may also submit feedback anonymously using the Centre’s feedback form. The form remains anonymous if you choose not to provide your personal information.
Paper feedback can be dropped off at the Sampola office mailbox.

In serious cases of harassment, the Adult Education Centre of the Tampere Region reserves the right to remove a person from the class room or the course if they do not comply with the principles for a safer space. If necessary, the Adult Education Centre may temporarily revoke a person’s right to study by decision of the Principal.

Anne Partanen

Harassment contact person at the Adult Education Centre of the Tampere Region

Phone:

040 708 4530

Tuula Vatanen

Deputy harassment contact person at the Adult Education Centre of the Tampere Region

Phone:

040 806 2400

Report inappropriate behaviour anonymously

If you do not wish to report an incident to the designated harassment contact persons, you can describe the situation using the feedback form. The form is anonymous if you choose not to provide your personal details.

Updated 25.11.2025

Equality and non-discrimination at the Adult Education Centre of the Tampere Region

Principles for a safer space in the Adult Education Centre of the Tampere Region

We are polite and considerate toward everyone. Expand Collapse

We respect each other’s self-identification and privacy. Expand Collapse

We give each other space. We do not disturb others by making noise, touching, or getting too close. Expand Collapse

We do not use offensive language or gestures. Expand Collapse

We can make mistakes and ask questions, because we don't expect everyone to know the same things. Expand Collapse

We respect others and their different values. Expand Collapse

We intervene in disrespectful behaviour. Expand Collapse

Principles for a safer space poster – The Adult Education Centre of the Tampere Region

Did you encounter inappropriate behaviour?

Anne Partanen

Tuula Vatanen

Report inappropriate behaviour anonymously