Learning & Teaching News

Since 2016, St. Peter’s College has enacted the delivery of the Victorian Curriculum. Together with the key learning areas, the Victorian Curriculum also requires a focus on Cross Curriculum priorities. The Victorian Curriculum states that:

“Learning about the cross-curriculum priorities of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander histories and cultures, Asia and Australia’s engagement with Asia, and Sustainability is embedded in the curriculum areas of the Victorian Curriculum F–10. These priorities provide national, regional and global dimensions and give students the knowledge and skills to engage with and better understand their world.”

Learning about Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander histories and cultures

“The Victorian Curriculum F–10 includes opportunities for students to learn about Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander histories and cultures. The knowledge and skills that students are expected to develop about Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders histories and cultures have a particular and enduring importance and assists students to understand the uniqueness of these cultures and the wisdom and knowledge embedded in them.” For further details please click this link

https://victoriancurriculum.vcaa.vic.edu.au/overview/cross-curriculum-priorities

In order to enact these Cross Curriculum perspectives, Year 8 Food Technology students participated in an Indigenous cookery experience. Colin Atkin from Wolithiga wares spoke to students about his Aboriginal heritage and the lessons instilled in him by his parents and grandparents. Of particular note was Colin’s philosophy of take only what you need. Colin demonstrated many artefacts for our students, including coolamons, dingo and possum skins and beautiful tortoise shells. After listening to Colins stories, students made bush damper which had the addition of pepper berries, native liquorice or native mint. Students then moved outdoors to the fire pit where they cooked fish in paperbark with lemon myrtle over the hot coals. Feedback indicated that both staff and students enjoyed the experience and gained a greater understanding of the unique perspectives of Australia’s first peoples.

Ms. Marlene Jorgensen

Deputy Principal - Learning and Teaching