At Taradale Primary School, inclusion is at the heart of who we are. We are deeply committed to creating a learning environment where every child feels safe, celebrated and able to thrive - regardless of race, gender, religious background, sexuality, gender identity, financial status, cultural background, linguistic background, family background, or disability. Our school community reflects the rich diversity of the world around us, and we take pride in supporting students and families of all backgrounds, identities and experiences.
Taradale Primary School has a long and proud history of championing inclusive education for LGBTIQA+ students. We were one of the first schools in Victoria to join the Safe Schools initiative, recognising early on the importance of creating a safe, supportive and respectful environment for all young people.
Our inclusive practices include:
Teaching the full Resilience, Rights and Respectful Relationships (RRRR) curriculum, ensuring students learn about respect, empathy, consent, resilience, help-seeking and positive relationships
Flying the inclusive rainbow flag, displayed proudly on a dedicated flagpole donated to the school by the ChillOut Festival—symbolising our commitment to diversity, visibility and belonging
Welcoming and affirming signage throughout the school that signals safety and inclusion for students, staff and visitors
School policies and everyday practices that are reviewed and implemented with an explicit commitment to equity and inclusion
Strengthening community connections, with our Principal participating in the local Shire Council’s Rainbow Roundtable reference group to support broader community inclusion initiatives
Close collaboration with Allied Health professionals and external support services to ensure students and families have access to the wellbeing, social and emotional supports they need
A growing number of LGBTIQA+ families, students and staff, reflecting our reputation as an inclusive and welcoming school community.
We believe that celebrating diversity is a powerful way to build understanding, visibility and belonging. Each year, Taradale Primary School proudly participates in key inclusion events such as:
IDAHOBIT Day (International Day Against Homophobia, Biphobia, Interphobia and Transphobia), where our community comes together to promote respect, stand against discrimination and affirm the right of every young person to feel safe.
Wear It Purple Day, a national day of celebration and support for LGBTIQA+ young people, where students and staff wear purple to show that diversity is valued and embraced.
These celebrations provide opportunities for learning, reflection and community connection, and reinforce to our students that they are part of a school that stands with them.
We know that students learn best when they feel accepted and valued. Our staff are committed to fostering classrooms where every child can express who they are without fear of discrimination or exclusion. This includes:
Respecting each student’s identity, pronouns and name
Supporting students who may be questioning or exploring their identity with sensitivity and care
Ensuring all school events, communications and activities are inclusive and reflective of diverse family structures
Actively addressing discrimination, bullying or harassment through clear policies, preventative education and restorative approaches
Providing professional learning for staff to continue developing skills in inclusive practice.
We value strong partnerships with families and carers. Our approach is grounded in open communication, collaboration and respect. Whether a student is part of an LGBTIQA+ community, has parents who are part of the community, or is simply learning to understand diversity, we work closely with families to ensure every child feels supported.
At Taradale Primary School, diversity is not only accepted—it is celebrated. We are proud of the safe, caring and inclusive culture our community has built together. Our commitment to inclusion is ongoing, and we continually reflect, learn and adapt to ensure every student can flourish.
If you would like more information about our inclusive practices or wish to speak with our leadership or wellbeing teams, please contact the school office. We welcome conversations and connections with all members of our community,.