Diversity Matters program builds empathy and inclusion at Molesworth Primary

Students and teachers at Molesworth Primary School have completed the first term of A Fairer World’s Diversity Matters Everyone Matters program, an initiative designed to build empathy, resilience and inclusion in rural grade five and six classrooms.

Delivered across four sessions during February and March, the program included two student workshops, a teacher session and a community celebration event attended by parents and members of the Hobart Human Library.

The program uses the Human Library model, where students listen to real-life stories shared by ‘human books’ who have experienced discrimination or stereotyping.

Through guided discussion, storytelling and creative reflection, students explored what inclusion means in their own lives and communities.

A Fairer World Educational Leader Jodie Epper said the program encouraged meaningful conversations and lasting reflection.

“One of the things I really liked about the sessions was seeing the conversations naturally develop between the human books, students and teachers,” she said.

“When conversations happen, empathy and understanding grow, and that’s exactly what the Diversity Matters Everyone Matters program is all about.

“It’s about breaking down barriers and helping people see each other as human.”

Students created stories and artwork celebrating diversity and inclusion in their rural community, with two printed and digital books produced and published as part of the project.

The sessions also left a strong impression on students and teachers alike.

“I learnt that it doesn’t matter who you are, people are just people and deserve respect,” one student said.

“Without diversity the world would be really boring,” another student said.

A standout moment from the celebration event came when Hobart Human Library participant John watched students perform scenarios demonstrating what they had learnt through the program.

“The students showed a depth of knowledge and care about inclusion, they were very impressive,” John said.

The program is now continuing at Huonville Primary School with students currently taking part in workshops and activities ahead of their own celebration event in late May.