We strive to create a school where everyone can bring their full identity to school. We commit to protecting and celebrating diversity.
We embrace, honour and celebrate our differences across race, age, gender, religion, sexual orientation, gender orientation, abilities, socio-economic class, and other characteristics that construct our unique identities.
We create a space in which every staff member, student, and family member is valued, respected, and honoured for their contributions. Our school embodies:
- equity
- anti-racism
- anti-homophobia
- reconciliation
- inclusion.
Inclusive education
Inclusive education means that all young people living with disabilities or who need specialist support can achieve and grow. We do not discriminate against young people with different abilities and needs. We adjust our teaching so that all young people can engage in education.
All of our young people and their support teams meet for 4 Student Support Groups (SSGs) each year, where we update student Individual Education Plans to ensure a high quality education for every child.
The Berry Street School Reconciliation Action Plan
In 2023, the Berry Street School launched its second Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP). A RAP is a formal statement of commitment to reconciliation. Our school, alongside the supports of our RAP Working Group and the Berry Street Walking Together Group, used the Narragunnawali platform to continue our reconciliation journey.
At the Berry Street School, we are committed to developing environments that foster a high level of knowledge and pride in Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander histories, cultures and contributions.
Vision for reconciliation
Berry Street’s vision for reconciliation is an Australia where Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children and families have the same life opportunities as all Australians. We believe that all children, young people and families should be safe, thriving and hopeful.
The Berry Street School is committed to providing a culturally safe learning environment that teaches truth-telling. Our priority is to ensure that Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander voices are heard, valued, respected and influential.
We will respectfully embed Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures within our learning spaces and local communities, ensuring pride in identity flourishes and the longest living continuous cultures are celebrated.
Vision actions
Our RAP clearly outlines our seven vision actions. To reach our vision for reconciliation, we are committed to:
- cultural safety
- anti-racism and allyship
- establishing and maintaining relationships with community
- cultural learning for all students and staff
- cultural Plans that prioritise connection to Country and community
- celebrate Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures all year
- prioritise voice and agency of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.
