Inclusivity in the Australian Education System

Inclusivity is a concept that has been spreading throughout the Australian education system. Many educators have discussed this concept in conferences, lunch rooms and union meetings. Australia has a diverse population. For this reason, that there are massive difference in the cultures and beliefs among the different races in Australia. It is necessary to develop an education system that acknowledges these differences and creates an ideal environment for all the students to learn. Inclusion involves adjusting the curriculum to include all students. It involves creating a school environment where those with disabilities and those without learn in the same classroom (Mackey, 2014). This means that it is different from special education. Inclusivity involves identifying education needs, making adjustments to the curriculum and coming up with a progressive program (Department of Education, 2013).

In 2013, Inclusive Education Report stated that discriminatory practices of schools were the greatest barriers to education in Australian schools (Cologon, 2013). Inclusivity has a potential to positively impact the students and the tutors. It creates an environment where the school system cares for both the student’s and the teacher’s needs. Inclusion creates a sense of community among the children. In order to understand the concept, I conducted an interview with the head teacher of my former school. I intended to know her understanding on inclusivity, the Christian understanding of inclusivity, its importance and the strategies that schools implement to achieve it. I also sought to find out whether the school was making deliberate attempts to make sure that learners from different backgrounds had quality education. Lastly, I also asked he...

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... Such an environment enables inclusivity to thrive. It is in line with the goals of inclusion that include participation, interaction and friendship. Acceptance by peers is a measure of inclusivity. That is why a community that emphasizes on interaction and friendship provides a good environment to implement the concept of inclusivity.

During the interview, the head teacher told me that inclusivity is in line with the Biblical mandate of reconciliation. She said that inclusivity ensures that divergent groups develop common values. She also said that for inclusivity to take root in schools, teachers should support all learners and peers should accept each other. Unless that takes place, it is impossible to implement this concept. In an inclusive environment, the administration should treat students equally, teach them universal values and respect them (Pudlas, 2004).