Marryatville High School has dedicated itself to integrating First Nations culture, especially Kaurna culture, into its core values and identity over several years. This commitment is evident in their current development of a comprehensive and sustainable Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP), supported by thorough groundwork and community collaboration.
A key aspect of this initiative is embedding First Nations culture into the school's ethos. The school's values and identity are closely linked to First Nations culture, with houses renamed to reflect Kaurna elements and a yarning circle established. First Nations history and perspectives are incorporated into the curriculum, fostering a deeper understanding and appreciation among students.
Staff members such as Zoey have learned and are now teaching Kaurna language. Students actively participate in various cultural activities, building a sense of belonging and pride.
Community collaboration has played a crucial role in shaping the school's initiatives. By working closely with community members, the school ensures their efforts are well-informed and respectful of First Nations cultures. Support and leadership from the school's administration have been instrumental in promoting and integrating First Nations culture into the school's fabric. The principal and other leaders are highly supportive and actively involved in these efforts.
Overall, the school's approach to reconciliation goes beyond tokenistic gestures, aiming for a deep, sustained, and integrated impact on all aspects of school life. This commitment to meaningful engagement and cultural integration creates a lasting and positive influence on the school community.
The initiative has grown significantly, with over 22 First Nations students now attending the school, some traveling from Port Adelaide. The goal is to amplify First Nations’ voices, give students leadership roles, and ensure they are safe and comfortable during school activities.
Initially unsuccessful in securing funding from several sources, the school eventually received support from the Indigenous Language and Arts program. This collaboration with KWK led to the creation of 11 stations featuring wooden posts and information about Kaurna culture. Topics covered include seasons, trade, kinship, childhood, and healing on country. The project, designed professionally to ensure durability and respect for cultural heritage, includes a yarning circle developed. Kaurna artist and landscaper, Ross Allison, designed and built the yarning circle as he was starting his own business. This initiative represents a physical manifestation of the school's commitment to cultural education and reconciliation.
Kaurna artist Harley Hall carved a shield with First Nations kids, emphasizing the connection between past and present for emotional and cultural healing. Hall will also paint totem poles for the school's house teams with the students. Ross's cousin, Alexander, has carved mascots for each house, which Hall will help paint.
The project includes a QR code to reflect the evolving nature of culture, allowing for continuous updates. The music department will create compositions linked to each station, adding an ongoing, dynamic element to the project. This initiative aims to provide a lasting impact while evolving with new understandings.
The school's efforts are well-received by families and teachers alike, with teachers proud of the initiative. Some non-First Nations parents even choose the school specifically for its First Nations programs. The initiative has personal significance for staff members with deep connections to First Nations culture, and the speed of change is seen as remarkable. Students have not only learned about the culture but have also influenced their families, educating older generations about the truth of First Nations history.
The school aims to integrate these cultural teachings into the curriculum, using the cultural trail as a starting point for subjects like English. This approach represents true reconciliation by fostering a deep understanding from a young age. Despite some challenges, such as ensuring a culturally safe space for all students, the school is committed to continuous improvement and creating an inclusive environment.
The press release announced the launch of a new initiative and highlighted the nomination for the Reconciliation Award at the Public Education Awards.
Other schools have expressed interest in collaborating and bringing students along the trail, indicating strong community engagement.