The programs of learning and teaching at Iona College Geelong, inspired by our values of Justice, Wonder, Hope, Courage, Compassion and Hospitality; support and promote the principles and practice of Australian democracy.
- We educate our students about the value of democratically-elected government and their place as a contributing citizen within our society.
- We respect and observe the rule of law and believe that no person is above the law.
- We respect equal rights for all before the law.
- We acknowledge freedom of religion and the need to practise tolerance and understanding of others’ beliefs, supported by our Religious Education program.
- We respect the value of freedom of speech and freedom of association and acknowledge that we have the responsibility not to abuse this freedom.
- We value the importance of openness and tolerance, and value and respect all members of the school community regardless of background.
Nine values for Australian Schooling have emerged from Australian school communities and from the National Goals for Schooling in Australia for the 21st Century.
These shared values such as respect and ‘fair go’ are part of Australia’s common democratic way of life, which includes equality, freedom and rule of law. They reflect our commitment to a multi cultural and environmentally sustainable society where all are entitled to justice.
The Nine Values for Australian Schooling are:
- Care and Compassion
Care for self and others. - Doing Your Best
Seek to accomplish something worthy and admirable, try hard, pursue excellence. - Fair Go
Pursue and protect the common good where all people are treated fairly for a just society. - Freedom
Enjoy all the rights and privileges of Australian citizenship free from unnecessary interference or control, and stand up for the rights of others. - Honesty and Trustworthiness
Be honest, sincere and seek the truth. - Integrity
Act in accordance with principles of moral and ethical conduct; ensure consistency between words and deeds. - Respect
Treat others with consideration and regard, respect another person’s point of view. - Responsibility
Be accountable for one’s own actions, resolve differences in constructive, non-violent and peaceful ways, contribute to society and to civic life, take care of the environment. - Understanding, Tolerance and Inclusion
Be aware of others and their cultures, accept diversity within a democratic society, being included and including others.
(National Framework for Values Education in Australian Schools)