Chase High School Launches Anti-Racism Initiative to Build Inclusive Community
The whole school community at Chase High School in Westcliff was urged to pause and critically examine their language while actively challenging bias to guarantee every individual feels respected and supported. This call to action came during a series of assemblies conducted by the Anti-Racist School, also known as Everyday Racism, which engaged students from Years 7 through 13 in meaningful discussions and question-and-answer sessions focused on the concepts of racism and unconscious bias.
Staff Training and Student Engagement
In addition to the student assemblies, teaching staff participated in a dedicated Continuing Professional Development session designed to equip them with strategies on how to be anti-racist. This dual approach ensured that the entire school community, including both students and educators, shared a unified focus and consistent messaging regarding inclusivity and respect.
Elsa Saidou, the equality, diversity, and inclusion lead at Chase High School, emphasized the critical importance of these efforts. "Schools should be a safe and positive environment for everyone, no matter where we come from," Saidou stated. "If Black and Brown students do not feel safe and constantly feel judged for aspects of themselves they cannot change, how can we expect them to fully engage, thrive, and achieve their potential?"
Shared Responsibility and Lasting Impact
Saidou further explained that involving the entire school—students and staff alike—was essential to distributing this responsibility collectively. "This will help us to create an inclusive environment, build understanding, challenge bias, and ensure every member of our community feels valued, respected, and supported," she added. The initiative aimed to raise awareness about how everyday interactions can have a profound and lasting impact, even when unintended.
"I hope this work has encouraged everyone to reflect on their own thoughts, beliefs, and biases," Saidou remarked. She expressed pride in the high level of student engagement, noting that the sessions were enjoyable and provided thought-provoking moments that challenged assumptions and broadened perspectives.
Building on Previous Efforts
This anti-racism work follows a series of workshops held last term that addressed both anti-racism and anti-homophobia, demonstrating the school's ongoing commitment to fostering a supportive and inclusive atmosphere for all students and staff.
