The Robert Gordon’s College community gathered to celebrate as Diversity Week brought energy and excitement across the school. Organised by the Student Representative Council (SRC), a heartfelt series of events highlighted neurodiversity, Pride, faith traditions, cultural heritage, and the joy of sharing food and dance from around the world. 

The Alliance group kick-started the week's celebrations by hosting a charity event. With an exciting game of “Guess the Number of Jelly Beans in the Jar”, many pupils donated £1 for the chance to take home the delicious prize. In total, the group raised over £200 for the College’s charity partner, Kayleighs Wee Stars. 

Pupils also had the opportunity to watch a video interview from former pupil Iain Anderson, Class of 1986, who shared his experiences and offered advice to members of our community who identify as part of the LGBTQIA+ community.  At lunchtime, the Alliance group virtually welcomed Kevin Stewart MSP who, as a proudly gay representative for Aberdeen Central, led an engaging and meaningful discussion on sexuality and identity.

Diversity in religion and faith was celebrated through the “Faces of Faith” exhibition, held in the Senior School Library. The event brought together a range of faith organisations, alongside representatives from Aberdeen Interfaith, who hosted informative and welcoming stalls. Pupils explored the exhibition with interest and enthusiasm, engaging in thoughtful conversations and gaining insight into a wide range of beliefs and perspectives.

Neurodiversity was celebrated in all of its forms. Using a neurodiversity simulator pupils gained insight into some of the everyday challenges neurodivergent individuals may experience, including sensory overload and differences in auditory processing.

On the penultimate day, S1-S6 pupils were delighted to welcome the Aliza Dance Collective for a lunchtime cultural dance workshop. The session offered pupils the opportunity not only to develop new dance skills but also to try something different and build confidence through movement. 

The week concluded with a vibrant cultural dress day, as pupils proudly wore traditional attire representing their heritage and enjoyed the opportunity to explore a variety of food stalls. Pupils and staff sampled a wide range of delicious dishes from around the world - from Africa to France, and Iran to Canada - ensuring there was truly something for everyone. 

Throughout the week, all Junior School classes each designed their own colourful puzzle piece, creatively expressing the message of diversity and belonging. Every class approached the activity in its own unique way, using bright colours, thoughtful words, and meaningful symbols to show that while we are all different, we fit together as one community.

Arthur (P4) said: “I feel like I belong in RGC because my friends always help me when I am stuck and all the teachers are really nice.”

D’lorah (P5) said: “I feel at home at RGC because I feel connected, valued and accepted by all my teachers and friends.”

Matthew (P6) said: “Each piece represents one person but they all fit together as one class, one year group and as one amazing school.”

Advik (S4) shared: “Diversity Week is an important reminder of the different perspectives within our school. Organising this week allowed us to see students from a variety of backgrounds come together to share their stories and sense of belonging with one another. This week wasn’t just about the events, but it was about building a community where everyone feels that they belong.”

Tammy (S5) said: “Diversity Week has become an integral part of the school calendar, offering a space to recognise and appreciate the individuality within our school. Through shared activities and collaboration, it highlights how our differences shape who we are as a community. Being involved in organising the week gave us insight into the range of backgrounds represented in the school and reinforced the importance of inclusion in everyday school life.”

Tammy also had the opportunity to film some of her Senior School peers, asking what diversity means to them.

Mr Macpherson, Head of College, highlighted: “We continue to show that diversity is something that is celebrated as a strength of our school community, and is fully embedded in our culture and the lived experience of our pupils. This was another super series of events organised and led by pupils, which shows that we go well beyond curriculum-based discussions in showcasing our multiple cultures in the school. To be all they can be, RGC pupils should be who they are - and we are very proud of each and every one of them.”