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The role of school education |
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If one is to understand others, one must first know oneself. To give children
and young people an accurate view of the world, education..., must first help
them to discover who they are. Only then will they genuinely be able to put
themselves in other people's shoes and understand their reactions.
Developing such empathy at school, bears fruit in terms of social behaviour
throughout life.
UNESCO, Learning: The Treasure Within, 1996, p.
93.
Schools play a vital role in preparing our children and young people for
effective participation and responsible citizenship in Australian society. As
such, they are uniquely placed to contribute towards the development of a
society free from racism.
There are significant responsibilities for schools in relation to countering
racism. They have a responsibility to provide an inclusive working and learning
environment that affords all students and staff the opportunity to achieve their
full potential. They must also respond to the specific needs of students, staff
and community from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds. Finally,
they are responsible for preparing students to contribute towards the
development of a just and harmonious Australian society.
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