By Becky Linklater, Management Accountant, andpartnership
National Inclusion Week!
This got me thinking, I want to post something about this because it’s so important but where do I start? I haven’t because I am scared of saying the wrong thing and offending someone, this shouldn’t be how it is but I wonder how many other people feel the same? Am I being grouped in a demographic of people who keep quiet because they don’t know what to say?
I think personally I am inclusive of all but what if I’m not but I just don’t know it? Growing up I went to a private school, I know what you are thinking, how can you know anything about diversity? However, this was no ordinary private school it was a Rudolf Steiner School.
“Waldorf education, also known as Steiner education, is based on the esoteric educational philosophy of Rudolf Steiner, the founder of Anthroposophy. Its pedagogy strives to develop pupils' intellectual, artistic, and practical skills in an integrated and holistic manner. The cultivation of pupils' imagination and creativity in ways that serve their developmental needs is a strong focus” (Wikipedia Contributors, 2019)
My class was so diverse, they came from all corners of the world and cultures, a lot of my class mates grew up in “community villages” such as Newton Dee https://www.newtondee.co.uk/ so I felt like a had a good understanding of a diverse society as I spent a lot of time there – See below for further detail and the great things they do.
Then, when I was 16, I left my safe little home in the North East of Scotland and moved on my own to Nottingham, again diverse but in its own way.
I have never questioned or seen people differently they are all just people so sometimes struggle with all these new terms of inclusion and diversity, it should just be a given that that’s what we do, so if I’m quiet on the subject it’s not that I don’t support it I just am inclusive of others in everything I do and I plan to continue doing that.
“Newton Dee is a charity based in Aberdeen, Scotland. Co-workers (live in volunteers) and Villagers (adults with special needs) live together here. We don't just provide houses, but build homes together, in a mutually supportive environment. But life isn't just about a home, it’s also about meaningful work. We provide training and supportive work environments where people can do more than just be entertained. We believe that work is an essential part of anyone's life. So whether it be a Baker, a Farmer, a Woodworker or something else - Newton Dee Camphill Community will help to support all of our community members to reach their fullest potential. This is all rounded out by a robust social, cultural and spiritual life.” Newton Dee. (n.d.). Newton Dee. [online] Available at: https://www.newtondee.co.uk/ [Accessed 29 Sep. 2021].
Why not contact us to find out more about how we are supporting organisations with their equality, diversity & inclusion.
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