Spirituality and values
Spirituality and values are interpreted and integrated into AuSSI in a variety of ways, according to the priorities and ethos of each individual school.
In secular schools, values education can be informed by AuSSI, with students developing a sense of responsibility and conscious environmental stewardship through engagement in AuSSI activities. In non-secular schools, a more specific religious context grounded in faith and specific religious teachings may be applied to this area, as in the Catholic education system.
In all schools, spirituality and values can also be explored through developing an understanding and respect for Indigenous people's ecological knowledge, which is inextricably linked to Indigenous spirituality, often referred to as 'connection to country'. This area can be incorporated into a range of curriculum areas including Indigenous studies, society and culture, religion, and values and ethics.
By addressing spirituality and values, schools can benefit by building a caring community of students and staff who are environmental champions.
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Students look at sustainable building design.
About AuSSI
The Australian Sustainable Schools Initiative (AuSSI) seeks to support schools and their communities to become sustainable