NAIDOC WEEK at MPS

Naidoc Week Celebrations

Whole School Indigenous Dance Incursion

Last Thursday, our students had the wonderful opportunity to participate in a whole-school Indigenous dance incursion presented by the Nikki Visaj Movement.

Throughout the day, every class took part in an interactive workshop that brought Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures to life through storytelling, music and movement. There was a real buzz of excitement as students listened, learnt and enthusiastically joined in.

The workshops were based on the concept of Liyan Nyikina, meaning a connection to Country, culture and spirit. Through storytelling and dance, students explored important cultural themes such as Dreaming stories, native animals and caring for Country.

Each year level enjoyed a learning experience designed especially for them. Our Foundation to Year 2 students explored the Dreaming story of Waa (the crow) through imaginative movement and drama. Years 3 and 4 learnt a contemporary Indigenous dance inspired by storytelling and emotion, while our Years 5 and 6 students embraced the energy of Indigenous Hip-Hop.

It was fantastic to see students participating with such enthusiasm, curiosity and respect. The workshops encouraged everyone to express themselves through movement while developing a deeper appreciation and understanding of the rich histories, cultures and traditions of Australia's First Peoples.

A big thank you to Nikki Visaj Movement for sharing such a memorable and engaging experience with our students. We know this learning will continue to spark conversations and deepen our students' understanding of First Nations cultures long after the music has stopped.

Mary Liolios, Claire Robertson, Sue Davies