In 2025, student data highlighted the need to create open, structured conversations about racism and culture in primary classrooms. While these topics are not always front and centre in primary education, student wellbeing and academic success are deeply connected. The Culture Connect program was introduced to support conversations about culture, identity, and fairness.
In 2025, our student data shows something important. We needed to have more open conversations about racism and culture in schools. While this isn’t always the topic discussed in primary schools, we know students’ wellbeing and academic success are deeply connected. In response, we introduced Culture Connect a whole school wellbeing program, designed to build empathy, strengthen cross curricular connections, and give students the confidence to speak up.
Throughout the term, students have engaged in structured discussions, storytelling activities, role plays, and creative projects designed to deepen their understanding of identity, belonging, and cultural diversity.
We began by clearly defining racism and unpacking what it can look like. We started by defining what racism is and talking about how it can show in obvious ways, but also in more subtle ways. What does racism mean? Treating people unfairly or mean because of the colour of their skin or where they were born. From there students explored their own ancestry and personal histories, which created a strong foundation of pride, curiosity, and mutual respect within the classroom. We explored our own ancestry and cultural backgrounds, which helped us understand that everyone has a story and a history that shapes who they are.
It was really interesting to see how diverse our class is. This is my family tree, which shows my cultural background that I’m very proud of. Where you guys from? I’m from New Zealand. I’m from Nepal. One of the most powerful aspects of the program has been watching students identify stereotypes and then practice challenging them through role play scenarios.
They developed the language and confidence to respond to unfair or discriminatory comments in ways that are calm, respectful, and assertive. These practical rehearsals made their learning authentic and meaningful.
Through roleplays, we practiced how to challenge stereotypes and respond to racist comments in ways that are calm, respectful, and confident. Culture connectors helped us understand each other better and think more carefully about how our words and actions affect each other. What has stood out has been the growth in empathy. Students are listening more carefully, they’re speaking more thoughtfully, and showing greater awareness of how their words and actions impact others.
As their sense of belonging strengthened, so did their confidence. We know that wellbeing and academic performance are closely connected. As students feel safer, more valued, and more understood, we see greater participation, improved collaboration and increased engagement in their learning. It has been incredibly rewarding to witness not only their understanding grow, but also the positive shift in the classroom culture that has followed.
Supported by strong partnerships with local reconciliation leaders and families in our community. Culture Connect has made a measurable difference. We’ve seen significant growth in students’ understanding confidence and willingness to engage in meaningful conversations. Most importantly, we’ve strengthened wellbeing, deepened relationships, and empowered our students to become more empathetic, inclusive, young leaders helping create a better school and a better world.
