At St Joseph’s, we respectfully acknowledge the traditional custodians of this land, the Awabakal people, whose living traditions and lasting culture have shaped our local environment.
Our commitment to social justice calls us to recognise, appreciate and celebrate cultural diversity. A curriculum that is truly Australian provides opportunities for all students to develop knowledge, understanding and appreciation of Aboriginal heritage, cultures and contemporary issues and spirituality and promote high expectations of Aboriginal students through quality teaching and learning opportunities.
St Joseph’s is committed to the creation of a school community characterised by acceptance, security, justice, happiness and an environment of growth. In order to provide a supportive learning environment for Aboriginal students, it is important to identify the factors that impact on learning and self-esteem and develop strategies to address the specific needs of these students in our school.
Implementation
Educational achievements of Aboriginal students at St Joseph’s Primary School, Charlestown are promoted by:
- Embedding Aboriginal perspective in all aspects of curriculum
- Providing opportunities for members of the school community to enhance their appreciation and knowledge of Aboriginal Australia and Aboriginal spirituality
- Ensuring we identify, name and acknowledge the traditional custodians of our land
- Including an Acknowledgement of Country or Welcome to Country at assemblies each week and other school functions
- Providing safe and supportive learning environments that enhance the self-esteem and cultural identity of Aboriginal students
- Providing all students with an understanding of and respect for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander traditional and contemporary cultures
- Providing intensive literacy and numeracy support for Aboriginal students where needed
- Strengthening relationships with Aboriginal families and the wider community and looking for opportunities for reconciliation and acknowledgement
- Developing Individual Plans and Personalised Learning Plans, as needed, for Aboriginal students
- Celebrating special occasions during the year, for example, Reconciliation Week, Sorry Day, Harmony Day, Indigenous Literacy Week and NAIDOC Week.