The Cross-Curriculum Learning Priority:
The Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Histories and Cultures cross-curriculum priority provides opportunities for all students to deepen their knowledge of Australia by engaging with the world's oldest continuous living cultures. Through the Australian Curriculum, students will understand that contemporary Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities are strong, resilient, rich and diverse.
Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Identities are represented as central to the priority and are approached through knowledge and understanding of the interconnected elements of Country/Place, Culture and People. The development of knowledge about Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples' law, languages, dialects and literacies is approached through the exploration of Cultures. These relationships are linked to the deep knowledge traditions and holistic world views of Aboriginal communities and/or Torres Strait Islander communities.
Desired outcomes for all students:
The desired outcomes for all students will understand that Identities and Cultures have been, and are, a source of strength and resilience for Aboriginal Peoples and Torres Strait Islander Peoples against the historic and contemporary impacts of colonisation.
Esk State School's Response:
Esk State School is very aware of the importance of teaching Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander histories and culture in a culturally appropriate way and, where ever possible, with the direct input of our local First Nations People.
Esk State School has embarked on a journey to redevelop an environmental learning space – Dirran Yani. This work is being embedded into the school website, so that electronic resources that explain the cultural connection of the First Nations People to Country/Place, are available to the community.
Staff are also committed to increasing their knowledges of First Nations perspectives, histories and culture so that they are more confident in delivering culturally appropriate lessons, using materials that have been vetted and endorsed by First Nation People. Staff have engaged with Australians Together to access professional learning opportunities, facilitated discussions and resources. The commitment is such that the school is participating in further research with Australians Together.
Australians Together is a great website with a vast array of educational resources to equip teachers to bring First Nations perspectives to the classroom. Go to www.australianstogether.org.au