All students regardless of race, age or gender, by virtue of their dignity as human persons, have a right to an education that is suited to their particular needs and adapted to their ability. (Pope Paul VI 1965)
Diversity encompasses all learners across cultural, academic, social emotional and physical attributes noting these are not mutually exclusive. ‘Cultural diversity’ refers to the infinite variety of life experiences and attributes a child brings to formal learning at school.
We are home to the world’s oldest continuous cultures, as well as Australians who identify with more than 270 ancestries. Australia truly is a vibrant, multicultural country.
Since 1945, almost seven million people have migrated to Australia. This rich, cultural diversity is one of our greatest strengths. It is central to our national identity. For more facts: Australian Human Rights Commission (Face the Facts).
Educators seek to meet the needs of all learners, so that every student experiences success. While all educators have this goal, Catholic educators see each student as a sacred creation – ‘made in the image of God’ (Genesis 1:27).
