St Anne’s Primary School celebrates Harmony Week with multicultural day for students

A Harvey primary school has celebrated its inclusivity with a day of fun for students.

St Anne’s Primary School was full of colour on Thursday as pupils ditched their school uniforms for multicultural and traditional dress as part of its Harmony Week commemorations.

The multicultural day started with a whole-school event in the Mercy Hall, where students showed off their clothing and its corresponding culture.

This was followed by a number of cultural performances for students, teachers and parents to enjoy.

A lion dance by young students was the first to be performed, which is common within cultures in Far East Asia.

A chorus of students singing the Filipino folk song Leron, Leron, Sinta was next, before special guests performed the Una Una Kaya Kaya dance.

Tonga’s culture was showcased next, with traditional dance and a native-language gospel song rounding out the acts.

Attendees finished the event by singing I am Australian before students took part in cultural games, arts and craft and digital technological experiences.

Some students were also treated to a multicultural lunch comprising of fried rice and beef dumplings, lasagna, spring rolls, cupcakes, Greek salad and Vegemite sandwiches.

Principal Darrin Croft said about half of St Anne’s students came from different cultures or nationalities.

“We are celebrating the diversity of our school and creating a sense of belonging,” he said.

Mr Croft said respect for other cultures was one of the reason the school held the day.

“It is paramount we pass that respect on to students at a young age,” he said.

It is the first time since 2019 the school has hosted a multicultural day, which is usually held on a biennial basis.