NSC Senior School Handbook

Preventing and Addressing Racism in Schools

NSC is committed to fostering a welcoming, inclusive environment where racism is not tolerated. Racism harms students’ mental health, learning and sense of belonging. We celebrate the diversity of cultures, ethnicities and faiths of all our students. It is up to all of us at NSC to make our school a place that is free of racism and where everyone feels respected and can learn in a safe and inclusive environment.

 

What is racism

The Australian Human Rights Commission (AHRC) defines racism as follows: 

 

Racism includes prejudice, discrimination or hatred directed at someone because of their colour, ethnicity or national origin. Racism can be revealed through people’s actions as well as their attitudes. It can also be reflected in systems and institutions that operate in ways that lead to unequal outcomes. Racism is more than just words, beliefs and actions. It includes all the barriers that prevent people from enjoying dignity and equality because of their race.

 

What NSC is doing to prevent racism 

NSC follows the Department of Education’s Preventing and Addressing Racism in Schools Policy. We are building a culturally safe school with inclusive learning for everyone by working with staff, students, families, carers and communities. We will: 

  • provide programs that teach about and celebrate diversity, inclusion and the impact of racism to build understanding and empathy
  • use practices that support all students to thrive
  • implement anti-racism efforts to prevent and address racism effectively
  • make sure everyone feels safe, with clear and accessible pathways to report racism

What to do if you experience or witness racism at school

If you experience or witness racism or religious discrimination at school, you can report it in the following ways:

  • At school – Speak to your Year Level Coordinator or Head of Year Level
  • Via the Report Racism hotline – Call 1800 722 476 or email report.racism@education.vic.gov.au.   

How NSC will respond to racism

When you report a racist incident, NSC will:

  • take your report seriously and act quickly 
  • give you ongoing support
  • investigate and respond safely and appropriately 
  • keep you informed, while respecting privacy 
  • review the incident to help avoid it from happening again.

For more details, visit the Department of Education’s website (https://www2.education.vic.gov.au/pal/preventing-addressing-racism-schools/policy).