From the 

Head of Junior School

Today is the international day of…

This week I have been reflecting on the term that has been and the term that is to come. Looking at the calendar I was struck by how many international days we have acknowledged this year from Safer Internet Day, International Women’s Day, and this week Harmony Day. I wondered where these days come from, why we observe them and what do our students think.

According to the United Nations, International days are occasions to educate the general public on issues of concern, to mobilise political will and resources to address global problems, and to celebrate and reinforce achievements of humanity. These days are designed to increase awareness, understanding, and action around the themes they address. They provide a platform for people to come together and recognise the shared values and interests that connect us all. This sense of community is important in building solidarity, promoting peace, and advancing human rights. As a school in regional NSW, international days help foster a sense of global community.

For us as a Junior School there are many reasons to take a moment to acknowledge particular days. Some of the days chosen are decision made at a staff level, while others are at a student level. In both instances the purpose in acknowledging the day is to raise awareness and understanding about important issues that affect humanity. For example, International Women's Day, celebrated on 8 March, is an opportunity to recognise the contribution of women to society, celebrate their achievements, and promote gender equality. Similarly, World Health Day, celebrated on 7 April, raises awareness about the importance of global health and the need for better healthcare systems.

Acknowledging international days is important as it can inspire action by our students. Maybe not on the day but in the future. By acknowledging international days, students develop awareness that we can leverage the power of collective action to achieve meaningful change. 

This week the Junior School acknowledged Harmony Day. An initiative from the SRC. In acknowledging the day the SRC wanted students to reflect on inclusiveness, respect and a sense of belonging for everyone. Ideals that are reflected in our own school values. The day saw students engaging in experiences designed to ​ promote understanding and respect for different cultures, to break down barriers between different cultural groups and promote greater social cohesion within the Junior school. The day focussed on promoting a sense of belonging and inclusiveness. Important ideals as we work towards all members of society feeling they are valued and included.

By celebrating Harmony Day, the goal was to promote the idea that everyone has a place in our society and that diversity is a strength that should be celebrated. Celebrating Harmony Day helped raise awareness of the inequalities and injustices that exist in our society and in Kinross Wolaroi and how we as a Junior School can work together in overcoming these by addressing issues such as discrimination, inequality, and social exclusion.

Year 2 What is Harmony Day:

“These days are about celebrating our culture.” Ivy Chapman 

“These days are about coming together.” Tom Haydon 

“Harmony Day and everyday at Kinross is a great day to share our culture, be proud of our culture and learn from the cultures of our classmates.” Fateh

“Harmony Day is a day of letting us and people come to different lands.” Dini 

“These days are about celebrating everyone and coming together.” Albert 

Kindergarten What is Harmony Day?

“When we know where people come from.” Edward Doyle

“Sharing food from around the world.” James Meachin

Why is Harmony Day important to celebrate?

“So we can include everyone from different countries.” Ted Weekes

Kinross Wolaroi Students making their Mark 

At Kinross Wolaroi we value and strive for academic rigour. Students have a myriad of opportunities to engage in enriching learning experiences which in some instances the school provides or facilitates student access to them.  Please share with us your child’s interest, passions, and achievements by emailing junioroffice@kws.nsw.edu.au.