Embracing and celebrating natural variance has become a critical skill in the 21st century, for both our students and adults alike. Learning spaces today need to ensure that their values align with the building of anti-racist schools and where no form of discrimination is tolerated. St Andrew’s BIG CAT values are a reminder of the continuous work required in achieving true inclusion for our community members.
As we seek to educate, and address the wrongs of the past, it is important that we maintain a Balance and celebrate the beauty and heritage of our institution. The Integrity of our work in transforming our school should speak to our belief that “South Africa belongs to all who live in it, united in our diversity” (South African Constitution). Each and every Community member is Accountable for their role in ensuring inclusion at St Andrew’s. Participating in this work requires us all to be courageous, as this work is often emotive and triggering. It is when we seek understanding and our intentions to unlearn are deliberate, that we can truly extend Grace to all who cross our paths. St Andrew’s aspires to educate and equip our youth with tools and skills to navigate the complexities of diverse communities. We need to believe and Trust again in the beauty of humanity, and aspire to live the values of ubuntu.
“We must embrace our differences, even celebrate our diversity. We must glory in the fact that God created each of us as unique human beings. God created us different, but God did not create us for separation. God created us different that we might recognize our need for one another. We must reverence our uniqueness, reverence everything that makes us what we are: our language, our culture, our religious tradition”. Archbishop Desmond Tutu
Please engage with us at forwardtogether@standrews.co.za with any comments or contributions to our conversation.
