Teachers for Refugees and People Seeking Asylum (TRAPSA)
About TRAPSA
Recent events in our state, the nation and around the world have highlighted the plight of refugees and people seeking asylum resulting in an outpouring of positivity.
In response to calls from members to lead the voice of teachers, principals and education support workers on this issue, the Queensland Teachers’ Union (QTU) and Independent Education Union – Queensland and Northern Territory Branch (IEUQNT) have jointly created a new special interest group for members of our respective unions: Teachers for Refugees and People Seeking Asylum (TRAPSA).
Schools, and everyone who works in them, play a vital role in supporting refugees, people seeking asylum and people from a refugee or asylum seeker background. The Teachers for Refugees and People Seeking Asylum special interest group aims to provide a focus for members wishing to play their part in this global movement of welcome.
The terms of reference for TRAPSA is available here.
Ramadan
Begins the evening of Wednesday, March 22 and ends on the evening of Thursday, April 21, 2023.
Fasting (abstaining from food and drink during daylight hours) during Ramadan is very important as it is one of the 5 pillars of the Islamic faith.
What can teachers do?
We have a part to play in creating safe and supporting learning environments for all our students. During the month long Muslim Ramadan some students could be fasting throughout the school day.
During this month you could:
- Acknowledge Ramadan - you can wish all Muslim students a happy, healthy, and peaceful Ramadan.
- Listen to any thoughts Muslin students would like to share about this month with their class or any individual needs they may have during this time.
- Some students may also not be fasting for a variety of reasons – faith and practice can vary greatly within the Muslim community.
- Be on the lookout for Muslim students who may also be more tired than usual during this month. This is due to changes in sleep and eating patterns.