JUNIOR SCHOOL
YEAR 1 BOYS WROTE ABOUT THE WAYS THEY INCLUDE OTHERS AND TREAT THEM RESPECTFULLY .
‘ WHEN SOMEONE RESPECTS YOU , RESPECT THEM BACK ’
Year 1 boys on the right path towards respectful relationships
The image of St Kilda ’ s Nicky Winmar lifting his jumper and pointing to his skin has become one of the most iconic images of our great game of Australian Football . It is a powerful photograph that evokes a great deal of emotion .
During this year ’ s Reconciliation Week , the Year 1 boys looked at this image , along with an image of Brownlow Medallist Adam Goodes . Talking about such an important concept with young boys can be quite challenging , and as an educator you feel an enormous responsibility to get it right . As a junior primary teacher , I devote a lot of work to laying solid foundations which can be built on in the future . I also see it as planting seeds , which will hopefully germinate at the right time .
The boys did a great job , while participating in a healthy and respectful conversation about these images . They made the important connection about accepting people for who they are as individuals , irrespective of their race . We have a wonderfully diverse mix of cultures here at Scotch , and we come together to create a harmonious community .
The boys wrote about the different ways they include others and treat them respectfully both at school and in the wider community .
As they grow from boys into men , we trust that they will take these ideals with them into the world and make it a better place for all .
Here are some quotations from the boys ’ posters :
‘ We can learn from the mistakes made in the past . Be kind to others . Share things with your friends .’ CANICE
‘ Be respectful of the opinions of others . Be kind to others because they will pass it on !’ FREDERICK
‘ Don ’ t hurt others ’ feelings . When someone respects you , respect them back .’ ASHER
‘ Include others in my games and change my games , so he can play with me and my friends .’ HARVEY
‘ Do not tease people about their opinions . Be kind to others .’ NICK
‘ Be kind to everyone : Share my umbrella !’ AIDAN
ANTHONY TASCA – YEAR 1 CLASSROOM TEACHER
10 Great Scot Issue 160 – September 2020