This issue’s Welcome article is by Oriana Constable Assistant Principal
Tintern Grammar is a place where students from all backgrounds come together to learn, grow, and thrive. Our school is a place where every member of our community should feel valued and respected, regardless of their background, culture or identity. To create an inclusive and welcoming environment for everyone, it is crucial that we embrace and celebrate our differences. Tintern Grammar has long been committed to achieving this by ensuring we celebrate diversity and inclusivity in our community, and it is a key aspect of our Forward Strategy. In 2022/2023 we have looked to work with students to introduce a number of new initiatives to further recognise, educate and celebrate diversity.
In Term 1 we celebrated Neurodiversity Week. This week is dedicated to raising awareness and promoting acceptance of individuals with neurological differences. Someone who is neurodiverse may have a condition such as ADHD, Autism Spectrum Disorder, dyspraxia or dyslexia. Across the school we held assemblies to help foster a culture of understanding and support for neurodiverse students, and to recognise their unique strengths and contributions to our community. In the secondary school, a student committee worked to create stickers and key chains, designed by students, and made in our STEAM centre, that were sold as part of our Neurodiversity Bake Sale.
In Term 2 the celebrations continue as we embark on our inaugural ‘Festival of Cultures’. Through the leadership of our International Captains and planning committee, we are holding a number of events including assemblies, food stalls and competitions with the aim to help students learn about and appreciate different cultures and traditions, and to develop a greater sense of empathy and understanding of others. A real highlight of this week was the Enya Ouyang’s beautiful performance at assembly on the Guzheng. Read the Music Matters report. It was wonderful to see parent volunteers and students working together to make dumplings and tacos to share with students.
We are now looking forward to upcoming events organised by our secondary Gender and Sexuality Alliance (GSA) group members in the lead up to Pride Month; a time to celebrate and support our LGBTQI+ community. We hope that events and activities held will ensure that all students feel welcomed and valued, and that they have access to the resources and support they need to thrive.
Student voice has been at the heart of these events and we encourage all students to become involved through formal leadership teams and with the establishment of event committees. Over 50 students across Years 7-12 have volunteered to be involved in the planning committees for events held so far this year. Involving students in the process and enabling them to take an active role in the planning and execution of events has been extremely successful and rewarding.
Celebrating diversity is not just a one-time event, but an ongoing commitment that we make everyday as a school. Thank you for your ongoing support and partnership in creating a welcoming and inclusive school community.
Oriana Constable | Assistant Principal
