Learning and Teaching in 3/4G

Excursion to CERES: Embracing Indigenous Perspectives

Our recent 3/4 excursion to CERES was an enriching journey into the heart of Indigenous culture and knowledge. The "Indigenous Perspectives Excursion" aimed to help us understand, acknowledge and learn from the ancient traditions and beliefs of Aboriginal peoples. This experience beautifully complemented our inquiry learning, offering an unforgettable, sensory-rich adventure full of discovery and education.

We participated in a variety of activities and learning experiences.

Here's a snapshot of what we did:

Acknowledgement of Country: We learnt about the importance of the Acknowledgement of Country and the meaning behind some Indigenous words, fostering a deeper respect for Aboriginal traditions.
Ochre Painting: We used ochre to paint symbols on our arms, creating our own stories. We also had our faces painted and learnt about the purpose of ochre and its use in storytelling.
Cultural Walk Along the Merri Merri Creek: We embarked on a walk along the creek, discovering the significance of the seasons in Aboriginal culture. We observed wildlife and plants, heard a Dreamtime story about the creek, and learnt about the importance of the Dreaming.
Marngrook Game: We played Marngrook, a traditional Aboriginal game believed by some to have influenced the development of Australian Rules Football (AFL). We kicked and marked the ball, which was traditionally made of twine formed from possum hair.
Tasting Indigenous Plants: In the CERES garden, we tasted a variety of Indigenous plants and learnt how Aboriginal people use plants sustainably, taking only what they need.

A Lasting Challenge

We were left with a profound challenge: to pass on what we learnt to others, ensuring that the rich culture and traditions of Indigenous peoples continue to thrive.

The excursion to CERES was a fun-filled, educational experience that left a lasting impression on us, fostering a deeper appreciation and understanding of Aboriginal cultures.