Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander
The McCarthy student NAIDOC committee is already working with great energy and purpose as they come together to shape a culturally rich and meaningful NAIDOC Week celebration for our school. With thoughtful ideas and strong collaboration, the group is committed to creating an event that honours and celebrates the histories, cultures and achievements of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples.
Meetings are held fortnightly in Week A on Wednesdays at Break 2 in the Yurrandaali Room. This is a dedicated space where students lead the way in fostering cultural belonging, awareness and community spirit.
Students who are passionate about culture, identity and making a positive contribution are always welcome to join and be part of the journey.
Our Child Studies students recently participated in a cultural workshop led by Jekoya, who introduced them to contemporary Aboriginal dance and the art of storytelling through movement. Students explored traditional stories and expressed their own narratives through dance, deepening their understanding of connection to Country. They performed their pieces for the class and engaged in meaningful discussions about the importance of spiritual connection. This experience fostered cultural appreciation, creativity and a stronger sense of community in the classroom.
Following their performances, students engaged in thoughtful discussions about the significance of cultural identity and spiritual connection in early childhood. They explored how these elements contribute to a child's sense of belonging and wellbeing, aligning with the Early Years Learning Framework's emphasis on identity and community. This reflective dialogue enriched their understanding of the educator's role in nurturing inclusive and culturally responsive learning environments for young children.
In Week 7, a selected group of students had the opportunity to attend the Bush to Bowl event alongside peers from other Tamworth local high schools. The workshop showcased the abundance of edible native plants and bush foods found in the local environment, highlighting the significance of sustainable foraging and the value of traditional Aboriginal knowledge. Through interactive, hands-on experiences, students learned how to identify and incorporate native ingredients into cooking. The event served as a powerful initiative to reconnect young people with the land, while fostering a deeper appreciation for country.
Jekoya Nash
Aboriginal Education Assistant
Lisa Smith
Aboriginal Education Assistant
lsmith11@arm.catholic.edu.au
Olivia Guilbert
Leader of Learning Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander
Education
oguilbert@arm.catholic.edu.au