AFL Queensland today launched an innovative new school program that incorporates Australian football as a tool for teaching students the value of diversity and inclusion.
Everyone Matters is a year 4 curriculum program designed by teachers, for teachers, and aligns with the Australian Curriculum.
Culture and family are important to a child’s sense of belonging and identity. The Everyone Matters program promotes inclusion and celebrates multiculturalism, with students learning about diversity, empathy and respect.
The program comprises lesson plans, activity resources and assessment tools and is conducted over eight sessions:
- 4 x Health lessons (delivered by classroom teachers)
- 4 x Movement lessons – including Indigenous games. (co-delivered by HPE teachers and AFL Queensland staff)
AFL Queensland CEO Dean Warren launched the program at MacGregor State School, alongside Director-General of the Queensland Department of Education and Training, Dr Jim Watterston, Gold Coast SUNS players Tom Nichols and Jarrod Harbrow, Brisbane Lions players Cedric Cox, Archie Smith and Bella Ayre (AFLW), MacGregor State School Principal Stephen O’Kane and year 4 students.
Mr Warren said AFL Queensland had spent almost two years developing and refining the Everyone Matters program, which helps students build a sense of belonging and trust.
“We have worked closely with the Department of Education and Training, principals and teachers, our Schools Advisory Board and universities to develop a curriculum program that delivers national curriculum standards and engages students,” he said.
“The AFL believes it is crucial to support students from culturally diverse backgrounds. The Everyone Matters program teaches the importance of being welcoming and approachable, accepting of difference and respecting multiple ways of being.”
Speaking at the launch, Dr Watterston said he welcomed the program and its learning objectives.
“Improved outcomes and opening opportunities for all students is a key priority for DET. This resource provides a fun way to engage more students using AFL as a context for learning,” said Dr Watterston.
Everyone Matters promotes inclusive behaviours and respect for diversity. It is aligned to the Australian Curriculum and a great way for students to learn useful social and cultural skills as well as developing AFL skill acquisition.
The program is open to all Queensland primary schools and teachers can sign up at https://aflq.com.au/everyone-matters/
