LevTimes (LT): Hi Mr McGee! What year did Leventhorpe start celebrating/participating in Cultures Week?
John McGee (JM): Cultures Week began last year (2024) and was born out of a desire to celebrate all of the different cultures in our school community. As a school, we felt that there was room for growth and Cultures Week feeds into the Diversity, Equality and Inclusion work that Mrs O'Connor does.
LT: Who came up with the idea?
JM: The whole initiative started with an idea I had one day following a training session on Diversity, Equality and Inclusion. Since then, the MFL faculty, Mrs Price, Mrs O'Connor, Mr Belt, Mrs Hajwanai and the whole pastoral team have been instrumental in supporting the event and helping it grow.
LT: Why do you think it is so important to be culturally aware?
JM: Cultural awareness allows you to engage with and enjoy other cultures. We are all aware of foods and music from different cultures, but there is so much more. England is probably one of the most diverse countries in the world. Having an opportunity to celebrate and explore different cultures is enjoyable and educational.
LT: If you could take Leventhorpe students anywhere on a school trip, with unlimited budget, where would you pick?
JM: Going somewhere that would challenge their views on living would be a unique opportunity. It would be lovely to take them out of their comfort zone.
LT: Which culture would you personally like to learn more about?
JM: I have been learning Turkish this year and it has been really enjoyable. Each year I have a go at learning a new language. I find the Japanese culture fascinating, especially their sense of service and selflessness!
Thank you for your time, Mr McGee!
Comentários