Chapter 6 – What Can Institutions Do to Improve Learners’ Sense of Belonging?
We learned so far that by creating inclusive and supportive environments, educators can empower learners to reach their full potential.
- Schools can implement and emphasise these standards across the school to set consistent expectation among learners (NSW Government):
- Treat one another with dignity.
- Speak and behave courteously.
- Cooperate with others.
- Develop positive and respectful relationships and think about the effect on relationships before acting.
- Value the interests, ability and culture of others.
- Take care with property.
- Establishing and communicating clear school-wide anti-bullying policies
- Participating in activities with learners
- Leading by example and modelling appropriate behaviour
- Personalising interactions with learners by showing they care, are fair and help learners work out personal issues.
- Providing inclusive education where all learners can access and fully participate in learning, alongside their similar-aged peers, supported by reasonable adjustments and teaching strategies tailored to meet their individual needs
- Using inclusive language in text and oral communication to connect with all learners and avoid accidently excluding some groups
- Providing an inclusive environment where the school’s diversity is reflected in the school surroundings, for example through school posters and cultural activities.