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Anti-racism lessons in nurseries [UK]

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6 Feb 2008
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Pre-school children in Glasgow's nurseries are to receive anti-racism education, in a move hailed as a Scottish first by the local authority.

Glasgow City Council said the Different Together anti-racist curriculum was a "powerful tool" which would be embedded into the day-to-day life of nurseries.

Packs will be sent to 214 nurseries providing up to 14,000 places.

Councillor Gordon Matheson said the pack would enable children to recognise and deal with racism.

Mr Matheson, executive member for education, said: "The indications are that the earlier you can pick up any tendency towards discriminatory or prejudicial behaviour, the better chance you have of successfully tackling it.

Children who live in a multi-cultural society tend not to be racist
Frances McCondochie
Nursery manager

"Although our schools and pre-five establishments are regularly praised for their positive ethos and strong values of respect for all, we recognise there is still work to be done."

The pack targets children, parents and carers and staff.

Margaret Doran, executive director of education and social work, said: "There is no place for racism within any of our schools and centres.

"This pack is an excellent example of how we are working towards a truly anti-racist education system which is based on care and respect for self and for others."

Frances McCondochie, manager of the multi-cultural Hickory Dickory partnership nursery in Pollokshaws, had still to receive the pack.

"I've never heard a racist comment in 20 years in a nursery setting," she said.

"Generally, children who live in a multi-cultural society tend not to be racist.

"It's something at this age they don't think about but anything that promotes anti-racism is a good thing."

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- reprinted from BBC News

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