“Coming Together” – Diversity and Inclusion
Natalia Cáceres, Headteacher at International School Andalucía, our international school in Seville, talks to us about the impact of an international mindset on diversity and inclusion.
How has the school actively promoted and fostered an inclusive environment, ensuring that students from diverse backgrounds feel welcome and supported in their learning journey?
As an International School, with an International Mindset, Diversity and Inclusion are central parts of our Vision and Mission. We are intentional in communicating this as part of our school´s identity and work towards ensuring all our policies reflect our comittment to this. It permeates everything the school does- from the personalised approach to our student´s learning journey, including language support to access the curriculum, to the whole school behaviour policy and School values which highlight the importance of respectful, non-discriminatory behaviour, to the whole school theme days such as International Day, Diversity day, where families and the wider community are welcome. Last but not least, we look for opportunities within the written curriculum to celebrate different cultures and their traditions.
International Engagement:
Can you share some highlights of the international opportunities provided to both students and teachers within the past year? How have these experiences contributed to promoting cultural awareness and global perspectives within the school community?
Of course. Mayor highlights were our international educational trips- Iceland, Austria, Scotland, Switzerland! Being part of the ISP group, our students have had the opportunity to take part in the International Buddy exchange programme and two of our students spent one month in Malaysia! They lived with a host family, attended a local school and experienced a very different culture to their own first hand. Upon their return, they held an assembly for our Secondary school where they shared their learning journey, experience and challenged stereotypes. We also were fortunate enough for one of our staff to be selected as part of the Street Child United team and spent time in Qatar with other volunteers from ISP schools around the world.
These opportunities are so powerful as they turn students and adults into real ambassadors of inclusivity and global citizenship by developing their curiosity, and broadening their perspectives about the world around them. They then seek opportunities to share and raise awareness of various topics of global concern with the community, whether it be via assemblies, Life skills and whole school campaigns. You can see how our students grow to be open-minded and appreciative of diverse cultures and people.
Community Building:
In your tenure, how have you observed the school community coming together to celebrate diversity and embrace various cultural backgrounds? Are there specific initiatives or events that stand out in promoting unity and understanding?
Our school has actually faced a transition into a more internationally inclusive community post COVID and Brexit! This is the silver lining which came with these global events: our students have the benefit of having teachers and peers from a wider range of cultures and backgrounds and we feel more connected to our identity of an international school. On that topic: one of our most popular celebrations and community events is our International Day. We do not limit this to a display of ´the F´s´ but encourage our students to research into how the countries they represent, have contributed to the achievement of the UN´s Sustainable Development Goals. This celebration brings all our community together and the countries represented are all part of ISA so it is wonderful to see students and families representing their own culture and nationalities with pride and sharing with the rest of us. It is a day filled with wonderful performances and exhibitions: all students led! Activities such as these truly foster an inclusive environment.
Impact on Learning Environment:
How do you believe the emphasis on embracing diversity and participating in international programs has influenced the overall learning environment at the school? Have you noticed any specific positive impacts on student engagement and academic growth?
Engaging with diverse cultures and participating in international programmes has enhanced our student´s intercultural understanding and competence. These raise levels of empathy and communication as well as collaboration which are crucial in today´s interconnected world as they prepare them for further study and future career opportunities around the world.
Future Plans:
Looking ahead, what are the school’s plans for further enhancing the sense of unity within the student body and faculty? Are there upcoming initiatives or strategies to strengthen the school’s commitment to fostering a global perspective?
This is the third year we run a student survey to hear their thoughts on all aspects to do with their learning journey with us at ISA. This survey includes feedback from students on how ISA promotes a safe and inclusive learning environment and it is a powerful tool which when shared with staff, it enables them to be more aware and conscientious of what our students´ needs are so we can work together to improve in these areas. It helps build a sense of community where all voices are heard and count. However, our most exciting future endeavour is to hopefully introduce the IB DP to ISA next year. This will certainly help us move the needle in terms of promoting a more global community of young people who will be equipped with the skills to intentionally work towards building a better, more diverse and respectful, tomorrow.
