Celebrating Diversity at St Margaret’s School for Girls with 33 Nationalities in its Senior School
Key Highlights :
St Margaret’s School for Girls is one of the most diverse schools in Aberdeen, with 33 different nationalities represented in its senior school alone. To celebrate the school’s culture, the school recently held a cultural fashion show, which saw students proudly displaying their national dress on the catwalk.
The event marked the end of the school’s Culture Week, a week-long event that celebrates the diverse range of cultures represented throughout the school. During the week, pupils and teachers were ‘challenged to learn something new about someone else’s culture’. Activities included a cultural dance class, an after-school cinema, and having henna art applied. Students were also able to showcase their cultural background to the rest of the school through music and dress.
As our photos show, there was an abundance of different national costumes on display. S6 student Joy Olanrewaju hosted a special assembly focusing on the topic of ‘celebrating different cultures and embracing diversity within the school community’. During the assembly, pupils discussed the definition of culture and how it makes everyone unique, the importance of being culturally aware, and recognising and appreciating other people’s beliefs, customs, and values.
Joy said: “Inclusion is at the heart of our celebration of diversity within our school community. It ensures every individual feels valued, respected, and welcomed, regardless of their cultural background, abilities, or differences. Inclusion is not simply a buzzword – it’s a commitment to creating a space where every student and teacher feels like they belong. It means ensuring that everyone has the opportunity to learn, participate, and contribute to the fullest. It’s about creating a culture of empathy, kindness, and understanding. One where we all appreciate the unique perspectives and experiences that each person brings to our school community. We don’t want to just be a school that celebrates diversity. We want to be one that actively embraces it and thrives because of it.”
The benefits of diversity and culture awareness were also discussed during the assembly. Increased empathy and open-mindedness, as well as preparation for a diverse workplace, were chief among them. The cultural fashion show also provided an opportunity for students to dress up and have fun, as our photos demonstrate.
The St Margaret’s School for Girls cultural fashion show was a celebration of the school’s diversity, and a reminder of the importance of inclusion and understanding. It was a great opportunity for students to showcase their cultural backgrounds and learn more about each other’s cultures.
