By Christabel Funk Murdoch University 31858195 Research project: the importance of integrating indigenous education in Primary schools. By Christabel Funk Murdoch University 31858195

Acknowledgement of country: “I wish to acknowledge the traditional custodians of the land we are meeting on, the Whadjuk people. I wish to acknowledge and respect their continuing culture and the contribution they make to the life of this city and this region.”

this research based project has been carried out to recognise and explore further the benefits of effectively integrating indigenous education in primary schools.

What is integrated Indigenous education in primary schools? Incorporating and integrating Indigenous Education in schools consisting of teaching the history, the culture and practices that cover all the learning areas.  Having a whole school based approach when incorporating Indigenous Education. Ensuring that the curriculum is planned to be carried out and integrated by the school as a whole school approach. Ensuring that the school environment is a welcoming place for the Indigenous students and positively contributing to an effective learning atmosphere.

Early childhood education has been well recognise in the literature as a important feature in a child’s development. It has influences the ability of children to learn and contributes to later educational, health and employment outcomes (MCEETYA AESOC 2006). It is also vital to build on the benefits of early childhood education throughout the remainder of the children’s schooling years. This offers opportunities to those whose early childhood practices were less than ideal.

How can we make an effective school culture for indigenous children? Promoting and valuing more of the Indigenous culture. Allowing the Indigenous students to feel safe, welcomed and valued at the school. Supporting the Indigenous students and their families . Implementing a curriculum that Indigenous students see as relevant to their lives and their culture. Valuing and using Indigenous staff.

What are the benefits of Indigenous Education in primary schools? Positive outcomes for the Indigenous students   It builds a stronger community and creates a positive school relationships Benefits ALL children – important for children to learn about other cultures.

What are some ways we can integrate effective indigenous education in primary schools? Incorporating and teaching diversity and knowledge of Australian indigenous people in the classrooms.  Focus on the AITSL teacher standards that explicitly support with the Indigenous education.  Celebrate all Indigenous celebrations (NAIDOC Week, Sorry Day etc) Integrating the many different teaching strategies to cater for varied learning styles of children.

Examples of indigenous books to read to the children

Embedding the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Perspectives

References Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Health Performance Framework 2014 Report (2014). Racism and discrimination. Retrieved from https://www.pmc.gov.au/sites/default/files/publications/indigenous/Health-Performance-Framework-2014/aboriginal-and-torres-strait-islander-health-performance-framework-2014-report/racism-and.html Closing the gap (2014). Positive learning environments for Indigenous children and young people. Retrieved from http://www.aihw.gov.au/WorkArea/DownloadAsset.aspx?id=60129548208 MCEETYA Taskforce on Indigenous Education 2001. Exploring multiple pathways for Indigenous students. Discussion paper. Melbourne: MCEETYA. Ministerial council on education, employment, training and youth affairs (2000). Achieving education for Australians aboriginal and Torres strait islanders people. RETRIEVED FROM http://www.curriculum.edu.au/verve/_resources/reporta_file.pdf