ABSTRACT
Education for diversity is fundamental if the United Kingdom is to have a cohesive society in twenty-first century. K. Ajegbo believes that ‘education for diversity is crucial not just for the future well-being of our children and young people but for the survival of our society’. If children are to develop as successful learners, confident individuals and responsible citizens, it is essential for them to understand and have respect for cultures, religions and identities. Northern Ireland policy for responding to cultural diversity ‘fits firmly within the emerging concept of “additional need”, which recognises and encompasses the diversity within the classroom. Encouraging multicultural education to be an integral part of the school ethos and embedding it in the curriculum are the first stages towards real inclusion and equal opportunity for all children. Most schools have a school council. Some of these are strong and allow children to join in by making decisions on the nature of the school and its curriculum.
