Inclusive Education
Inclusion Week at St Monica’s College : Celebrating Unity, Inclusion, and Fun
On 9 June, St Monica’s College proudly launched our annual Inclusion Week, a dedicated time to celebrate and honour the vibrant and diverse members of our neurodiverse community. This week-long initiative highlighted the unique contributions of our students on the autism spectrum, their families, friends, and the dedicated educators who support them.
The week was filled with a variety of activities that encouraged participation, creativity, and community spirit.
🎮 Mario Kart Tournament: Racing Towards Inclusion
The Mario Kart competition was a highlight of the week, with students on both campuses competing in friendly races. This event not only provided entertainment but also promoted teamwork and sportsmanship, as students cheered each other on and celebrated each other's successes.
🎬 Inclusion Movie Premiere: A Cinematic Celebration
Students gathered for a special movie premiere, complete with snacks, to enjoy the film, Inside Out, that highlighted themes of inclusion and acceptance. The event provided an opportunity for students to relax, reflect on the importance of inclusivity, and engage in discussions about the film's messages.
🐾 EnviroFriends Animal Exhibit: Learning Through Nature
The EnviroFriends animal exhibit with Mr Coleman brought a touch of nature to our social lunch, allowing students to interact with and learn about various animals. This hands-on experience fostered a deeper understanding of environmental conservation and the importance of respecting all living creatures.
💍 Jewellery Making Activities: Crafting Connections
Jewellery making sessions offered students a creative outlet to express themselves and connect with peers. Through crafting, students collaborated, shared ideas, and celebrated their unique styles, reinforcing the value of individuality within our community.
🌭 Sausage Sizzle Fundraiser: Sharing a Meal, Sharing Moments
The sausage sizzle was a delightful way to bring our community together. As students and staff enjoyed a meal, conversations flowed, friendships were strengthened, and the sense of unity was palpable. Our College band added to the atmosphere with beautiful music, creating a warm and inviting ambiance. All funds raised from the event will be donated to the High Street Bells Choir, a remarkable community initiative that provides a space for people of all abilities to experience the joy of singing and connect with others through music.
🌟 Reflecting on a Successful Week
Inclusion Week was a resounding success, thanks to the enthusiastic participation of our Monican community. The diverse range of activities ensured that there was something for everyone, and the positive feedback received underscores the importance of such initiatives in fostering an inclusive school culture.
We collaborated with our Wellbeing Coordinator, Ms Maryanne Theodosis, to enrich the week’s activities. It is important to acknowledge that approximately 70% of autistic individuals experience mental health challenges, such as anxiety, depression, and emotional regulation difficulties. This statistic underscores the significance of our collective efforts in fostering an inclusive and supportive environment for all students.
The week provided a meaningful opportunity for us to pause, reflect, and deepen our understanding of neurodiversity. It served as a time to expand our knowledge, challenge stereotypes, and actively promote the values of inclusion and belonging within our community. By embracing the diverse ways individuals experience and interact with the world, we foster an environment where everyone feels valued and understood.
Inclusion means more than just being present—it means being heard, respected, and supported. As we focus on neurodiverse awareness, we also take this opportunity to better understand how we can support our neurodiverse students in meaningful, compassionate ways.
We look forward to continuing our journey towards inclusivity, building on the connections made during this memorable week.
Mrs C O'Neill
Co-Coordinator of Inclusive Education (DSC)
Ms K Farquharson
Co-Coordinator of Inclusive Education (DRC/SGC)
