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Every individual has a personal narrative, a story of experiences that colours what they question, the answers they seek, the possibilities they see, and the ways they come to know the truth’.
Horizons of Hope: Vision and Context (2016, p.12)n.

 

Optimal wellbeing and learning occur in enabled environments.

Safe, inclusive and respectful learning environments are positive, vibrant, interactive and transparent. They are faith filled communities that are responsive to the creative presence of God across the spiritual, pastoral and social dimensions of life.

Characterised by an open, friendly atmosphere with a strong sense of hope, regard, welcome and belonging, enabling school environments act ‘in the best interests of the child’ [26] and community of which s/he is a member to ensure that their unique potential is called forth and encouraged to unfold. They are communities where fairness, equality and a deep sense of justice promote responsibility and accountability for individual actions and the rights of others. In enabling school environments diversity is celebrated, the dignity of all persons is valued and affirmed and ‘encounters between different cultures, religions and languages are seen as a source of mutual enrichment’ [27].

As communities where children and young people’s wellbeing and learning can flourish, enabling school environments are child-safe and child-friendly. They are places where clear individual and collective responsibilities for ensuring the protection of children and young people are embedded across standards of behaviour and work practices [28]. In enabling school environments, child safety is paramount. It is approached with vigilance and an ongoing commitment to continuous assessment, action, reflection and improvement.

In safe, inclusive and respectful learning environments school leaders and staff purposefully collaborate with students, families and their communities co-create an explicit vision and commitment to wellbeing. When consistent expectations are communicated and enacted through policies, practices and pedagogy, the health and safety of all children and young people is strengthened.

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