Collaboration in Professional Development
Collaboration in PD where awareness of diversity and multiculturalism introduce new and ideas and ways of thinking.
Just before the borders shut due to lockdown, Education Director Mark van Ommen travelled to South Australia to co-deliver Teacher Professional Development with our partner, The Abraham Institute, at Salisbury East High School in north Adelaide. Prior to the PD, staff completed a survey to identify some of the challenges they experience working in a school with an increasingly diverse student population.
Education in multicultural classrooms can thrive when there’s understanding and acceptance of all students, regardless of differences. Celebrating diversity enhances student-student and teacher-student relationships. Activities that involve the sharing of knowledge, experiences and customs can lead to better outcomes, both academically and socially.
The PD provided a chance to reflect on the survey results, and unpacked why intercultural understanding was vital for overall school improvement. The diverse team from The Abraham Institute shared personal stories and reflections which enhanced the PD. It was a rich experience, and feedback from the school leadership said the PD served as a catalyst to create student-led groups that were exploring ways of facilitating cultural inclusivity and engaging and supporting families
