Schools across NSW will celebrate multiculturalism this week as the NSW Department of Education marks Refugee Week 2025.

At Kooringal High School in the Riverina region, Refugee Week is not just a date on the calendar, it is a time to amplify voices, share stories, and celebrate the strength and resilience of their refugee students.

Teacher Zahraa Nahem said the school had come together to raise awareness about the challenges faced by refugees and the incredible contributions they make to the community.

“During the week, every student is invited to explore what it means to seek freedom and embrace opportunity,” she said.

“Refugee students will share their powerful stories firsthand at an assembly, offering fresh perspectives and sparking deep conversations about empathy and understanding.

“These stories inspire not just reflection, but also action, reminding everyone that our school community is made stronger by every student’s journey.”

Ms Najem said Refugee Week was just one of opportunities on the school calendar to celebrate the contribution by students from all cultures and backgrounds.

“It’s the ongoing work that truly matters, including programs that ensure refugee families feel welcome and supported all year round,” she said.

The school hosts exclusive open days for refugee families, opening the doors to understanding and fostering strong connections.

Community, courage, and cultural pride

At The Forest High School on the Northern Beaches, Refugee Week is a vibrant celebration of community, courage, and cultural pride.

Teacher Lauren Weatherall said this year’s theme, Finding Freedom: Diversity in Community, would shine through during a colourful planned program of music, poetry, and connection.

She said the highlight of the week would be the senior assembly on Tuesday 17 June.

“It will open with a performance by the school’s much-loved Pacifica Lei Dance group, setting the scene for a morning of cultural expression and reflection,” Ms Weatherall said.

Tibetan student slam poets will also take the stage, sharing powerful words that capture the heart of what Refugee Week means to them.

The assembly’s headline act is African Beats, a local cultural group that has partnered with the school to share the rhythms and stories of Africa through dance and song.

“Their performance, filled with energy and authenticity, will be a powerful reminder of why Refugee Week matters, especially for young people finding their place in a new community,” Ms Weatherall said.

For Year 11 student Tenzin Khenrab, one of the Tibetan poets, Refugee Week is a chance to stand proud.

“I am so proud to come from a refugee background and just as proud to go to The Forest High School. Events like this remind me that I’m seen, I’m heard, and I belong,” Tenzin said.

Other events will include a bake sale fundraiser, with all proceeds going towards the Tibetan Children’s Village and refugee support programs.

“With pride, purpose and community spirit, The Forest High School is showing how schools can be places of both learning and belonging; and how every student, no matter their journey, has something truly powerful to share,” Ms Weatherall said.