With almost 4,000 schools and early learning services in the Reconciliation Australia Program (RAP) community, Wyong Preschool’s achievement of being shortlisted as a finalist in the early learning category came as a surprise for educators at the kindergarten.
“We were surprised but honoured to be recognised for our work in the reconciliation journey,” Wyong Preschool director Cheryl Irvine said.
Not only was the Rose St centre shortlisted, it was also the only finalist from NSW in the early learning category.
“We believe it’s important for all children and their families to learn about Aboriginal culture,” Irvine said.
“We hope to continue on our reconciliation journey, there are always advancements to make in that area.”
The fourth Narragunnawali Reconciliation Awards, a biennial event, were held in November where a number of passionate schools and early learning services were celebrated for implementing outstanding reconciliation initiatives.
Schools’ category winner went to Winterfold Primary School in Western Australia while Stirling District Kindergarten in South Australia won the Early Learning category.
Reconciliation Australia CEO Karen Mundine said she was heartened by the outstanding reconciliation work going on in schools and early learning services across the country.
“After the disappointment of the referendum result it is wonderful to witness the profound contribution that these places are making towards a more just and reconciled Australia,” she said.
“There is still so much work to be done to enable a greater understanding of our history and the legacy of colonialism which still haunts so many First Nations people.
“I can see these changes happening in our education system.
“Young Australians are opening their hearts and gaining the skills to effectively contribute to reconciliation.
“This is why events like the Narragunnawali Awards are so important.
“It is about celebrating educators and community members out there, doing the hard work, learning and unlearning, and creating lasting relationships.”
The awards were presented on November 24 at a ceremony at the National Museum of Australia and followed a forum investigating the past, present and future of reconciliation in education.
Narragunnawali is a Reconciliation Australia program which provides tools and resources for schools and early learning services to take action towards reconciliation between First Nations Peoples and other Australians.