Indigenous Studies

St. Joseph’s Crib Point Primary is located on the ancestral lands of the Boonwurrung people of the Kulin nation.

We respectfully acknowledge the traditional owners and custodians of these lands and pay our respects to Elders past, present and emerging. We recognise and respect their cultural heritage, beliefs and continuing connection with this land. We recognise the responsibility we have in caring for this country, which has deep spiritual significance for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, whose cultures are amongst the oldest living cultures in human history. We recognise the importance of educating our students in the strong foundations of culture and identity. We acknowledge that better understanding and respect for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures develop an enriched appreciation of Australia’s cultural heritage and can lead to reconciliation.

 

Our Commitment

St. Joseph’s Crib Point Primary’s Indigenous Programme has been in place for many years and aims to develop staff, student and community understanding of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander histories, cultures and languages while establishing culturally safe practices throughout the School. Through learning and teaching experiences and open and rigorous conversations, we aspire towards a collective responsibility to make a positive difference.

As a School and outlined in the St. Joseph’s Reconciliation (RAP) plan, we are committed to:

  • strengthening relationships with our Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students and their families
  • continuing to build relationships in local communities
  • working toward developing a culturally responsive school
  • developing a Whole School understanding of the social and cultural issues from the past which has an impact on our present
  • ensuring that Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander perspectives are included across all year levels in all curriculum areas