In Week 1, we celebrated our first nations peoples in a ‘NAIDOC Week’ liturgy and assembly. NAIDOC Week is formally observed in July, however many schools and organisations continue to recognise the culture and contributions of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples throughout the year.

This years theme - "The Next Generation: Strength, Vision & Legacy" celebrated the achievements of the past and encourages a focus on empowering and investing in the next generation of First Nation peoples. It gives us the opportunity to honour the rich cultures, histories and contributions of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples — the First Custodians of this land.

Students participated in a range of activities. They included: Scratch art, rock painting with Aboriginal symbols, storytelling and dance. Each class also wrote their own Acknowledgement of Country, using their own words and being mindful of its meaning.

A special thank you to our special visitors who facilitated groups and to our Year 6 students, who helped in classrooms with activities. Also a huge thankyou, to all staff for supporting our students in this important celebration.

Together, NAIDOC Week calls us to celebrate, to learn and to grow as a community and this was evident in the way the children and staff embrassed the day.

Sharyn Champion | Aboriginal Education Officer