Aboriginal Education

Professional Learning

This term, our Staff Development Day focused on Aboriginal Education and improving educational and wellbeing outcomes for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students. Over the day, our teachers and SLSOs participated in a variety of workshops and webinars, explored teaching and learning resources including some wonderful new library books, and collaborated on the draft school 2023 Reconciliation Action Plan. It was also a time to reflect on the programs and practices that have been implemented at Oak Flats Public School and the journey we are on to ensure we are providing culturally inclusive and significant educational opportunities for all our students. As a staff we believe that Aboriginal Education is “everybody’s business” and we are committed to increasing our own and our students’ knowledge and understanding of the histories, cultures and experiences of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people.

Gumaraa LAD Program

This term, we are thrilled to host Gumaraa at Oak Flats Public School who are running the LAD (Language Arts Dance) Program for all students in Kindergarten to Year 2. Each Monday, students will participate in a variety of culturally rich learning experiences incorporating Indigenous languages and arts. Our first session on Monday was an absolute hit with all students and we can’t wait for next week! 

Students in Years 3 to 6 will participate in the LAD Program in Term 3.

Shellharbour City Council Reconciliation School Flag Walk

The Shellharbour City Council Reconciliation School Flag Walk will be taking place in Term 2, Week 6 on Monday, 29 May 2023. This year due to number restrictions, we are inviting 16 Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students in Years 3 to 6 to attend the event. 

The flag walk will begin at Warilla Surf Club on Osbourne Parade at 10.00am and proceed to Reddall Reserve, Lake Illawarra. A formal ceremony will be held at approximately 10.45am, followed by a barbeque lunch provided by the council. Permission notes will be sent home in the following week, and we will be taking the first 20 students who return their notes. To ensure as many students as possible can attend the event, we are providing transport free of charge to and from school. We warmly invite parents, carers and families to join us on the day.

Emily Chatterton

On behalf of the Aboriginal Education Committee