Glen Education Edithvale
Strengthening our understanding of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Perspectives through our Acknowledgement of Country
Glen Edithvale Educational Team
Early Childhood Educators have a responsibility to create a curriculum that supports children to strengthen Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander perspectives throughout the Early Years Learning Framework (2022), including the vision, principles ,practices and outcomes.
Educators can do this by ensuring culturally safe and secure environments for children and families through the acknowledgement of family "histories, cultures, language, traditions, religions, spiritual beliefs, child rearing practices and lifestyle choices of families" (EYLF, 2022, p. 6).
Children become active and informed members of the community who “come to understand, acknowledge and celebrate the diversity and richness of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander histories and cultures” (Education Council, 2019, p.8 in EYLF, 2022, p.6).
At Glen Education, we acknowledge those that have come before us through the regular practice of an acknowledgement of country. An Acknowledgement of Country is an opportunity for anyone to show respect for Traditional Owners and the continuing connection of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples to Country (Reconciliation Australia).
At Glen Edithvale Kindergarten, we have chosen to teach children to acknowledge our traditional ancestors through song. Each morning as we gather together, we sing the song every morning with the children. The words are embedded into the program on the wall and as part of our daily gatherings. Copies of the song have also been made available for families to take home to continue this learning at home - if you don't have a copy, please see an educator who will provide one!
An Acknowledgement of Country can be offered by any person and like a Welcome to Country, is given at the beginning of a meeting, speech or event. There is no specific wording for an Acknowledgement of Country, just be sincere and, if possible, do some research on the Country you are acknowledging.
Reconciliation Australia.
After singing the song, educators will often take a moment to discuss the song, a particular word, or the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander flags with the children, leading to some thoughtful responses that show the children’s ongoing learning and understanding of other cultures. Here are some reflections from children that demonstrate the learning that is occurring as children make sense of newfound knowledge:
Charlie A: “We are saying thank you to the elders for playing on their land.”
Charlie C: “We need to look after the land. The Aboriginal people looked after it before us.”
Magnus: “It means we respect the land”.
Marlie: “We all share the land. We sing the song for the Aboriginal people.”
Our learners are also encouraged to contribute to our reflection book with their thoughts, words, drawings, and ideas (see attached image).
