Year 9
Djeembana Program
The Djeembana program builds knowledge and understanding through real world problem solving and utilises and extends skills learnt in core subjects.
The Year 9 Djeembana program allows students to participate in a range of life skills activities, participating this term are students from 9E & 9F. Recent highlights include an excursion to the Melbourne Royal Botanic Gardens, speakers from Minus18 and BATYR .
Connecting to Country - Royal Botanic Gardens
Students spent a day exploring the Royal Botanic Gardens engaging in a Scavenger Hunt, a picnic and an Indigenous guided tour.
Students were able to learn about the people of the Eastern Kulin Nation and to develop a greater understanding and respect for local First Nation cultures. The 'Connecting to Country' activity, led by a First Nations cultural guide, enabled us to learn about indigenous plants, their use and significance to Indigenous Australians, and how First Nation peoples care for Country. The guide shared stories from their lives and peoples, reflecting on the significance of First Nation culture in Australia.
Minus 18
We welcomed a speaker from Minus 18 who helped us learn about LGBTQIA+ identities, concepts and terminology. The session aims were to build empathy and connection, celebrating diversity and respect for each other. We explored ways to safely support peers through inclusion and respectful relationships.
Website for more information About | Minus18
BATYR
BATYR is a for purpose preventative mental health organisation, created and driven by young people, for young people. The aims of this presentation were to smash the stigma surrounding mental ill-health and empower young people to reach out for support.
In this session we heard personal stories from our presenters about their journey through mental health challenges - the speakers engaged the students with their stories of hope, resilience and courage. Students discussed the support networks and services available to them, empowering students to reach out for help when needed, and to understand how they can support friends who may be facing mental health challenges.
Website for more information - What is batyr? - Batyr
