Diversity in the Curriculum
On 4 January, staff from our Trust primaries and a number of secondary representatives enjoyed a motivational and thought-provoking training session given by Bennie Kara, co-founder of Diverse Educators.
A gifted speaker and specialist on diversity in the curriculum, Bennie guided the collected teaching assistants, teachers and school and Trust leaders on topics such as the importance of learning about and respecting cultures and histories; how to consciously cater for all voices in our classrooms; how we can ensure inclusive environments for those with disabilities, and the importance of creating belonging through curriculum.
Her messages on how social justice is a concept that can and should begin at school, and how we can each influence positive change from our own level of leadership were both particularly powerful.
In the afternoon, empowered by Bennie’s ideas, delegates collaboratively reviewed their own school curriculums at a subject level, and began to embed cultural connections. For instance, by looking at the connections in literature across the globe so that pupils have an understanding of how ideas, concepts and literary tropes are fantastically universal. In the study of mathematics, recognising that the numerals 0-9 are actually Arabic values. In art and design, recognising the global interconnectivity of shape and form.
James Puxley, Headteacher of Linton Heights Junior School said: “Moreso than ever this first-class, visionary training will have a lasting impact on how we educate the young and inquisitive minds of today, to be empathetic, tolerant and accepting citizens of tomorrow.”
Prue Rayner, Director of Primary Education said: “Bennie’s inspiration and knowledge support our work to create a curriculum and ethos across Anglian Learning that enable every pupil to feel strongly positive about their learning and their school. We will take this work forward as an integral element of all that we seek to achieve.”
See below some photographs of staff collaboratively reviewing their own school curriculums.
Headteachers, Director of Primary Education, and Bennie Kara (middle)
