Michael a local indigenous educator from Speaking In Colour came into preschool this week and showed us some Aboriginal dance moves. He explained why ochre is used to paint the faces of the dancers and how the dance movements are very special in telling the story of the animal, song or music.
Our children enjoyed learning about dance and were keen to tell Michael all they knew about rhythm and Aboriginal dreaming stories, and that they like dance, music and Australian animals. We proudly showed Michael our Acknowledgement of Country, and told him what we know about the Awabakal land and people.
Respect for diversity is a key principle of our curriculum. We consider cultural competence a key practice and recognise the importance of cultural competence in relation to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people.
Dating back more than 75,000 years, being one of the oldest cultures in the world, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander culture holds a unique place in Australia. Our children are certainly enjoying learning about Australia's first people and most definitely developing a cultural interest and knowledge.
Mrs Collinson - August 2018
