"ALL IN" FOR RECONCILIATION

“All In” for Reconciliation

During the lead up to Reconciliation Week (May 27 – June 3), students across our school have been learning about the meaning and importance of National Reconciliation and what it means to be “All In” for reconciliation. Reconciliation is about building respectful relationships between Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and non-Indigenous Australians, recognising our shared history, and working together for a more inclusive future.

Music has played a role in our learning. Students listened to and discussed the Australian classic, Beds Are Burning by Midnight Oil, exploring its message about justice, land rights, and the importance of recognising Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples’ connection to Country. The song helps to understand how music can be used to raise awareness and inspire change. We sang this song at our latest assembly.

Throughout this week, students will continue to learn, at an age appropriate level, significant events and moments in Australia’s history that have helped shape reconciliation today. Classes will learn about the 1967 Referendum, where Australians voted overwhelmingly to recognise Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples in the census and allow the Federal Government to make laws for them. Students will learn about the importance of the Mabo Decision, which recognised the traditional ownership of land and challenged the idea of terra nullius - the belief that Australia belonged to no one before European settlement.

National Sorry Day is May 26 where students will learn about the importance of acknowledging the pain and impact experienced by the Stolen Generations. These conversations will build empathy, understanding, and respect for the experiences of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.

These learning experiences strongly connect with our school’s behaviour expectations of “We Are Respectful” and “We Are Inclusive.” By listening to different perspectives, learning about Australia’s history, and valuing the cultures and contributions of First Nations peoples, students are demonstrating respect for others and developing a deeper understanding of inclusion. Reconciliation reminds us that everyone has a role to play in creating a community where all people feel valued, heard, and connected.

We are proud of our students who continue to grow as respectful, inclusive, and informed members of our community.

Scott Megson

Deputy Principal