In 2020, a working group was established among staff to include a higher level of knowledge and pride in Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander histories, culture and contributions within the school curriculum. Now, with involvement from the Clarendon board, staff and students, the Reconciliation Action group meet weekly to discuss how they can further implement this plan.
“At its heart, reconciliation is about strengthening relationships between Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and non-Indigenous peoples for the benefit of all Australians,” said Year 12 student, Lillian Wade. “We believe Clarendon has a responsibility, in collaboration with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities, to develop empathy and awareness among our students, staff, parents, and wider school community so they become champions of reconciliation within broader society.”
The Reconciliation Action group aims to:
- Ensure Clarendon’s campuses are places where Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples feel culturally safe and are treated with dignity and respect
- Engage with and learn from Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, communities, and organisations
- Respectfully incorporate Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures and knowledge and recognise the truth of Australia’s history in the development of the curriculum, engagement activities and teaching and learning practices
- Celebrate the immense and historically significant contribution of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples to the fabric of Australian society, both before and after colonisation
- Develop an understanding of the importance of place and land within Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander culture while encouraging and providing opportunities for all within the Clarendon community to connect to Country
The Reconciliation Action group will continue to educate and raise awareness of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures within the school and wider community.
