 "Gawler and District College B-12")
Aboriginal Education at Gawler and District College
At Gawler and District College B-12, Aboriginal Education is a valued and integral part of our whole-school approach. We are committed to creating a culturally inclusive environment that recognises, respects, and celebrates the histories, cultures, and contributions of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. Through meaningful programs, strong community partnerships, and culturally responsive practices, we support students' cultural identity, academic success, and wellbeing across all stages of their educational journey.
For our preschool-aged children, Minya Ones offers a culturally rich and nurturing program designed to support early development and strengthen family connections. Parents and caregivers participate alongside their children in activities that celebrate Aboriginal culture, such as storytelling, art, music, and yarning circles. This shared experience helps children build a strong sense of identity from an early age and encourages positive relationships with their peers and other families. Minya Ones also provides a supportive environment where parents can connect, share experiences, and build a sense of community, laying strong foundations for their child’s future learning and cultural journey.
Niina Marni is a junior school after-school program held on Wednesdays, providing a space for Aboriginal students and their families to build cultural knowledge together. The program is based on play-based learning, offering opportunities for children to engage with culture through hands-on, meaningful experiences. It encourages children to explore and connect with their identity in a safe and supportive environment, with parents and caregivers actively involved in the learning journey.
Nunga Home Care supports students in Years 7-11 by providing a daily morning check-in with Aboriginal staff over breakfast. This warm and welcoming space encourages students to start their day positively, while building relationships with staff and other Aboriginal students. It offers a culturally safe environment where students can share experiences, access support, and stay informed about what's happening around the school. The program helps strengthen peer connections and reinforces a sense of belonging and cultural identity.
Deadly Boys and Deadly Girls are programs run with middle school students, which focus on developing essential life skills such as cooking, budgeting, and teamwork. These programs also provide a supportive space for students to build strong connections with Aboriginal peers and role models. By working together and sharing cultural experiences, students foster a sense of belonging and pride in their identity, while strengthening relationships with Aboriginal Secondary Education Transition Officers (ASETOs).
