For the staff and students at St Francis College Crestmead, 'everyone is welcome' is not just words, but a reflection of how the whole school community lives out the values of St Francis - in simplicity and harmony.
With students from over 50 nationalities attending the school, it is one of the most culturally diverse schools at Brisbane Catholic Education.
St Francis College Crestmead Principal John Marinucci said that staff, students and the broader community all had a role to play in building an inclusive and harmonious school environment.
“Welcoming is how we live here at St Francis College, working with the broader community to build cultural understanding and awareness of the different backgrounds of our students and staff," John said.
“St Francis of Assisi taught of the dignity of every person, and we value the individual talents and cultures that we can experience at the school."
Year 11 student Salvius said that coming to St Francis College made him feel like “he's part of a bigger community".
“St Francis College is special because of its diversity, all the different cultures that we have and also all the different backgrounds of the teachers as well," Salvius said.
Harmony Day celebrations at the school were a colourful celebration of this diversity – a showcase for the students and by the students.
St Francis College Crestmead Teacher Kylie Sabatino said building a sense of belonging came down to understanding each individual student and celebrating the unique talents and individual gifts they bring every day to school.
“We are so lucky to be a Prep to Year 12 campus, so we are journeying with our students from the start of their education all the way through as they move onto the adult world," Kylie said.
“At St Francis College, we welcome everyone with our words and actions - towards the students in our classroom, the teachers in our community and the wider community as well."