Diversity and Community Cohesion

What does Diversity mean? ‘…….. The key is not to wipe out all differences, but to unite with our differences intact.’ Rabindranath Tagore

The duty to promote Community Cohesion - …… we passionately believe that it is the duty of all schools to address issues of ‘how we live together’ and ‘dealing with difference’ however controversial and difficult they might sometimes seem. The diversity and citizenship curriculum review 2007

What is Community Cohesion? Common vision Sense of belonging

What is community cohesion? Many definitions are being produced…… Common values Sense of belonging Diversity appreciated and valued Equal life opportunities Strong and positive relationships Knowing rights and responsibilities Trusting each other and local institutions Shared vision for community Shared access to English

A school should consider... Teaching, learning and curriculum Equity and excellence Engagement and extended services

……..underpinned by Equal life opportunities Working to remove barriers:- intolerance and harassment; mistrust of different groups; lack of spaces for meaningful interaction.

To Conclude Research indicates: HAPPY + SAFE = LEARNING A quote form Debbie Gordon: ‘We are not in the business of promoting anything. We are in the business of letting children know that who they are is O.K.’