In the Netherlands, as in many diverse societies, children often grow up in segregated neighbourhoods. They may live in the same city, yet in different worlds. Meaningful contact across those worlds is not automatic.
Welcome to my Neighbourhood creates positive, guided experiences with peers from other environments. For pupils, this supports perspective-taking and cooperation. For schools and communities, it can contribute to stronger social cohesion.
We match two classes based on neighbourhood context and pupil populations. Pupils work in stable mixed teams.
The programme consists of six half-days spread over several weeks:
• preparation in the home class
• two exchange days in each other’s school and neighbourhood
• a festive closing session
Teachers are present during the exchange days, supported by WIMW coordinators and trained (student) facilitators to ensure a safe and positive group climate.
Cooperative Learning principles are used throughout the activities, alongside structured exercises that encourage pupils to share about themselves and get to know each other.
In 2009, Welcome to my Neighbourhood was accepted for inclusion in the Compendium of Human Rights Education in the School Systems of Europe, Central Asia and North America: A Compendium of Good Practice.
The compendium is published by Human Rights Education Associates, OSCE/ODIHR, the Office of the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights, the Council of Europe and UNESCO.
In the Netherlands, the programme has been recognised by the Oranje Fonds as a successful local pioneer.