DOMAIN 7 Catering for diversity
Key Concepts
DOMAIN 7 Catering for diversity
� A thorough understanding of a student ’ s academic , social , cultural , and emotional background is essential for developing appropriate educational programs . This includes an understanding of trauma , including the historical trauma experienced by Indigenous people and refugee groups .
� Respecting and valuing our differences by welcoming students , carers , and staff from all backgrounds , cultures , experiences , religious beliefs , sexual orientations , and gender identities .
� Cultural awareness and understanding builds self-knowledge and self-esteem for students , which support our strong stance against bullying and discrimination .
� Developing Individual Education Plans ( IEPs ) is a key factor in recognising the individual needs of students and in engaging students in learning .
� The specific educational needs of all students are met through inclusive curriculum and cultural practices .
Theory / Rationale
� The trauma-informed program needs to be person centred and individualised , catering for students ’ diverse needs , backgrounds , and goals .
� An effective school is an inclusive school with a strong moral purpose . It is imperative that all staff , students , parents / carers , and all members of the school community exhibit positive relationships and value difference ( DEECD , 2009 ).
� A ‘ Stronger Smarter ’ philosophy ( Sarra , 2011 ) articulates that teachers can meet the educational needs of Indigenous students by :
o talking about , researching , and examining with children the meaning of an Indigenous identity
o clearly and continually articulating high expectations for educational attainment
o providing positive role models and embracing the role of elders and parents in the school
o confronting poor student behaviour by focusing on school attendance o fighting racism in the community o celebrating identity and community successes regularly .