Ten WA public schools are joining a national effort to stamp out antisemitism by boosting awareness and understanding through a six-month pilot program.
The program was launched today by Education Minister, Sabine Winton; Australian Special Envoy to Combat Anti-Semitism Jillian Segal AO, and other education leaders at the Holocaust Institute.
“Antisemitism undermines social cohesion, damages trust, and challenges the values of respect, dignity and inclusion that underpin our society,” said Minister Winton.
“There is absolutely no place for antisemitism or any form of discrimination in our schools or our community.
“Students and their families deserve to feel safe in their school communities, and the Cook Labor Government is committed to providing culturally safe, inclusive and supportive learning environments for all students and staff.
“The responsibility to confront antisemitism is a shared responsibility and education must play its part alongside government, communities and individuals.”
Under the pilot program, principals, teachers and staff will undertake specialised training to enhance their understanding of antisemitism and their ability to respond appropriately when any incidents occur.
Schools will also be provided with practical resources and expanded support to help promote inclusive environments and enhance antisemitism education in classrooms.
The pilot program forms part of a national approach to combat antisemitism and has been adapted to the WA context, following the pilot being rolled out in NSW and Victoria last year.
Department of Education WA Director General, Jay Peckitt said education is essential to combating all forms of discrimination.
“It is through education and the creation of inclusive school cultures that we can guide the next generation and arm them with the knowledge and skills needed to reject hatred and extremist views,” said Mr Peckitt.
“The expertise of organisations including the Holocaust Institute of WA and the Jewish Community Council has been invaluable in helping to shape the Department’s approach and ensuring that our response is informed, authentic and meaningful.
“Prejudice and discrimination have no place in our schools and through working with ASECA and UNESCO, we are further strengthening our collective capacity to tackle antisemitism.”
The 10 WA public schools have been selected to take part include:
- John Curtin College of the Arts;
- Wanneroo Secondary College;
- Mt Lawley Senior High School;
- Morley Senior High School;
- Armadale Senior High School;
- Balga Senior High School;
- Dianella Secondary College;
- Yokine Primary School;
- Wongan Hills District High School; and
- Hammond Park Secondary College.
The pilot program was developed in partnership between Australia’s Special Envoy to Combat Antisemitism (ASECA), the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO), the Holocaust Institute of WA and the WA Department of Education.
