The Yellow Flag
Every year, Irish-medium schools are invited to take part in the Yellow Flag Programme which celebrates diversity in primary and post-primary schools.
The programme would like to hear from schools interested in taking part. The Yellow Flag Programme is a practical, school-based programme that promotes an inclusive, positive environment where equality and diversity are promoted.
26 schools nationwide have won the award, primary and post-primary, and it’s to their credit that three Irish-medium schools are among them – Gaelscoil Riabhach, Co. na Gaillimhe, Gaelscoil an Bhradáin Feasa, Co. na Mí and Gaelscoil Mhichíl Cíosóig, Co. an Chláir.
Some of the material submitted by Gaelscoil Mhichíl Cíosóig as part of the programme can be seen here: An Brat Buí i nGaelscoil Michíl Cíosóig
The handbook for the scheme is available (in Irish) here: http://www.yellowflag.ie/images/misc/Irish_Travellers_v7_Irish.pdf.
The programme is based on 8 practical steps. The steps involved are as follows:
- Intercultural and Anti-Racism Training for Staff and Management. This training is available through Irish.
- Going Beyond the School Walls: Engaging with the Community
- The Diversity Committee, which will consist of pupils, teachers, parents, other school staff and management of the school and will meet on a regular basis to drive the project forward.
- Intercultural Review, involving staff and students working alongside parents and other relevant stakeholders.
- Action Plan for a Diverse School
- Monitoring, Evaluation and Information Dissemination
- Curriculum work: Classroom study on diversity, covering race and ethnicity will be carried out by all students.
- Diversity Code and Anti-Racism Policy
Application forms are available to download from www.yellowflag.ie. If you would like to register your school’s interest in the programme or need further information, you’re welcome to contact Paula Madden at yellowflagprogramme@gmail.com or 01 6796577.
The programme provides an excellent opportunity for Irish-medium schools to show that they are inclusive and open to every child and that they celebrate diversity.
There is additional information on www.yellowflag.ie for anyone with teaching experience interested in volunteering to help to promote the scheme amongst Irish-medium schools.