We recently surveyed our students and staff, and 54 unique nationalities were represented among us. With such a diverse and multicultural community, we are in the process of becoming a recognised School of Sanctuary. BCC is committed to creating a safe, welcoming, and inclusive environment for everyone in the community, particularly those seeking sanctuary. The program encourages schools to educate students, staff, and parents about what it means to seek sanctuary and to actively welcome people regardless of their background or status. Schools that have this accreditation take a visible stance against prejudice and racism and help their students develop a sense of belonging and intercultural awareness.
- Safety and welcome: The primary goal is to create a safe and inclusive space for anyone in the school community; students, staff, and families, who may be seeking sanctuary due to difficult circumstances in their home country.
- Education and understanding: The initiative educates the wider school community on what it means to be seeking sanctuary, helping to foster understanding and dispel misinformation.
- Action and inclusion: Schools are expected to take concrete actions to embed a culture of welcome and inclusion across the curriculum and school practices.
- Anti-prejudice stance: Schools publicly demonstrate a commitment to becoming more inclusive and take an active stance against prejudice and racism.
- Intercultural awareness: The program promotes intercultural awareness through learning experiences that develop intercultural skills and improve communication across cultures.
- Community engagement: Schools often share their findings with other schools and the wider community to promote the message of welcome.