Kimberley students to learn science from world’s oldest living culture

Students across the Kimberley will learn about science from the world’s oldest living culture, as part of a new State Government initiative to strengthen learning outcomes for Aboriginal students. Set to take place in 20 public schools across WA, the exciting teaching initiative will see students learn science from an Aboriginal perspective, both on country and in the classroom. Designed with local Aboriginal communities and organisations, the two-way science initiative will encourage professional learning, featuring immersive workshops on country and the teaching of cultural and ecological knowledge by local Indigenous people. The initiative will help to build understanding and respect for Aboriginal histories, cultures, people, knowledge and experiences, while strengthening the well-being and learning outcomes for Aboriginal students. Schools across the North West to participate in the program include Broome Senior High School, Fitzroy Valley District High School, One Arm Point Remote Community School, La Grange Remote Community School and Djugerari Remote Community School. Education and training minister Sue Ellery said all students in WA deserved the best opportunities to learn and prepare for life beyond the classroom. “I look forward to seeing it progress to more schools in the future and I’m sure students will be inspired by these new learning programs,” she said. Aboriginal affairs minister Stephen Dawson said the initiative would allow students to better understand the world’s oldest cultures. “I am thrilled to see students at WA public schools getting the opportunity to learn more about Aboriginal people’s in depth understanding of WA,” he said. “This aligns with the State Government’s commitment to Close the Gap, particularly around education and learning targets and our commitment to keep language and culture strong.” Baldivis MLA Reece Whitby said the program encouraged schools to build partnerships with their Aboriginal communities. “I am very pleased to launch this exciting initiative and see students learn science from the world’s oldest cultures,” he said.