Top Tweets for #EdChatIe

As would I. I recommend reading the full literature review if you have the time. It makes it clear that the NCCA do not think it sufficient to take an approach to interculturalism that welcomes, embraces or celebrates different cultures. They specifically want a critical/radical approach to be implemented in schools, that focuses on power and privilege and deconstructing the 'dominant' cultural identity (that is white, settled, catholic Irish). This isn't intended to be a once off lesson, they ask that this "sit, occupy, and permeate all facets of school life" https://t.co/BNqYDLOUMQ

Concepts like 'belonging' have always been important in high quality school experiences. But it's also important to remember that belonging is a goal we obtain by multiple methods that are often overlooked: safe, predictable, public spaces; well-known routines; clear boundaries for all; professional admin and data systems; clear expectations tied to high standards; the awareness that both you, and everyone else, matters. Without these foundations, no one feels like they belong anywhere. In this light, perceived belonging- or identifying with the school community- is a marker of school success, not a strategy itself. It is not a weary procession of boxes ticked: 'we had an assembly on belonging'; 'we have posters saying how much we care'; 'we have belonging champions in every year group.' Feeling like you belong is a hard journey for some kids who never have, anywhere. Getting them there takes a lot of time, systems, and revisiting. I mention this because I often see, in the rush to meet a new abstract like inclusion, or high standards, or equity, schools tripping over themselves trying to meet the target and forgetting that the target isn't the strategy.