“Diversity is being invited to the party: Inclusion is being asked to dance.”

 Vernā Myers (Harvard-trained lawyer and Vice Presentation of Inclusion Strategy at Netflix).

Inclusion at DGS is a fundamental value of the school because it fosters a fairer and more enriching learning environment for all students. It's a concept grounded in the belief that every child, regardless of their abilities, backgrounds, or challenges, deserves equal access to education.

First and foremost, inclusion promotes diversity as a strength, not a barrier. When students from various backgrounds and abilities learn side by side, they experience firsthand the value of difference. This promotes tolerance, empathy, and a sense of belonging, which is invaluable in an increasingly diverse world.

We know that the human brain doesn’t stop developing until approximately 25 years old and the teenage brain is constantly learning through experience. Some of those most important experiences revolve around inclusion. Questions like:

How can I accept others? How can I cooperate with people who are different to myself? How can I show empathy to those I may not usually connect with? These are all very valuable lessons for later life and specifically teaching students about inclusion helps them to become more compassionate and open-minded. Inclusive schools are more reflective of the real world, preparing students for life beyond the classroom.

I am pleased to say that we have a brilliant set of students at DGS. Students who want to learn about others, that try to think about people other than themselves and that want to help. Inclusion in schools is not just about education; it's about building a more inclusive society. It's about instilling in the younger generation the values of acceptance, diversity, and equality. By fostering a culture of inclusion at DGS, we're trying to help our students shape a brighter future for themselves and others.