We kick-started our Hive events once more at Kingham Hill with a lunch-time seminar on Tuesday focussed on the importance of inclusion and diversity. Led by the Headmaster, Mr Last, the seminar considered a variety of issues that may affect those in our community, from neuro-diversity to hidden disabilities, adoption and more.
A number of pupils spoke about their own experiences at KHS and how the school has supported them. One pupil mentioned how she valued the positive impact of her teachers knowing her personal story and how this has made her feel valued and visible. One of our teachers also highlighted the kindness and respect demonstrated by our pupils in their relationships with one another, something that they said has not been visible in all the schools they have worked in.
As part of the session, Mr Last also shared his own journey, recounting the transformative impact of adoption on both his personal life and his teaching career. He reaffirmed to all those present that everyone is welcome here at Kingham Hill regardless of their differences, and spoke about the importance of everyone upholding a mutual respect for each other.
The discussion ended with an invitation for pupils to join the ‘Inclusion Committee’. This group is a pupil-led initiative which aims to identify and engage the diverse groups within our community, fostering crucial dialogues and ensuring that our school is an inclusive environment, where all students and staff feel valued, accepted and understood.