MEDIA RELEASE - Sutherland Shire Council’s award-winning approach to early education highlighted again!
Sutherland Shire Council’s award-winning approach to embedding Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander perspectives into children’s curriculum has been highlighted again at the opening of a unique meeting place at Bradman Road Early Education Centre (EEC) in Menai – an idea sparked by one of the centres own preschoolers.
Sutherland Shire Mayor, Councillor Jack Boyd, was joined by the Gandangara Local Aboriginal Land Council, and Bradman Road staff, children and their families at the centre on Friday to celebrate the official unveiling of the new yarning circle, that has been incorporated into the children’s recently refurbished play space.
“This initiative is another significant milestone in Council's ongoing commitment to meaningful integration of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander culture into the children's learning environment,” said Mayor Boyd.
“Our 200 plus educators have worked alongside Aboriginal consultants to build their own knowledge and that of the 900 young children they care for each week, to promote cultural inclusivity and support our reconciliation journey.
“The program we deliver in our centres is unique, drawing on the expertise of Aboriginal consultants. They each bring rich perspectives and teachings to children which allows us to create and embed a truly authentic program, using the right protocols and to give due respect and priority to Aboriginal voices.
“The idea for the yarning circle resonated deeply with Council's vision and its commitment to incorporating children’s voices in decision-making, and it is heartwarming to see the children's voices and efforts reflected here in such a meaningful way.”
As part of the planning, the children participated in a Bush Kindy excursion during which they discussed the animals they wanted to see on the totem poles around the yarning circle. This resulted in a kookaburra - inspired by the birds they could see in the nearby trees – being carved into one of the four totems. Additionally, one pole is painted black, featuring handprints of the children, created under Eddie’s guidance.
This cultural meeting point is now a vital component of the Children’s Services program, which aims to authentically embed Aboriginal perspectives into the learning experiences of children.
This initiative not only enriches the educational environment but also fosters a deeper understanding and appreciation of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander culture among the young learners.