Enabled Youth Disability Network (EYDN) launches first South Australian Student Diversity Advisory Council

22 September 2021

Working in partnership with the South Australian Department for Education, the Enabled Youth Disability Network (EYDN) has established the first Student Diversity Advisory Council in South Australia.

Kathryn Mills, EYDN Chairperson says, EYDN wants to make things better for students at school now and in the future, and this initiative provides an authentic opportunity for students to have a say on education policy that affects them. 

“Students from diverse backgrounds will work alongside the Department for Education and Education Minister’s Office to share their insights and experiences and help shape education policy and practice. 

“This project will empower young people to use their voice and help grow the next generation of leaders in South Australia.

“EYDN is keen to see the implementation of inclusive education in SA. Education is not a topic young people get to have a say on and they have experiences in education that need to be shared.

“These experiences will help policy makers and educators understand how to better support young people from diverse backgrounds now, and in the future.”

While EYDN is a youth disability-focused organisation, students from a range of backgrounds including disability, Culturally and Linguistically Diverse, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander, and young people who identify as LGBQTI+, were invited to apply.

Minister for Education John Gardner said, The Student Diversity Advisory Council will give those from diverse backgrounds the opportunity to formally express their concerns and contribute to changes to educational policy.

“We want to provide every student with a world-class education and that means meeting their needs and supporting their aspirations.

“The Student Diversity Advisory Council will give students with disability and diverse backgrounds a voice and the opportunity to reflect on their experiences so we can better support them and other students with diverse needs going forward.

“I look forward to engaging with these students and hearing their perspectives and ideas.”

EYDN, with support from its host agency Purple Orange, will deliver this project over a two-year period with the first Council meeting held on Friday 20 August.

Recruitment for the Council continues, and SA high schools are invited to nominate students who meet the criteria to fill the few remaining spots.

Applicants can learn more and apply by contacting EYDN Administration Officer, Angus Fowler on 8373 8319 or by email at angusf@purpleorange.org.au

 

Media Enquiries

Lana Thrupp

Phone: 0408 831 914

Email: lanat@purpleorange.org.au