27 March 2023
Events and initiatives Public school life
Our schools marked Harmony Week in spectacular fashion as students came together across the state to celebrate cultural diversity in their communities.
Harmony Week was particularly memorable at Baldivis Secondary College, where the variety of activities included a smoking ceremony and breakfast club throughout the week with a different cuisine each day to educate students about the culture.
Moana dance group performing on Harmony Day.
The celebrations were highlighted by a stunning performance from the Moana dance group. Watch the performance on our Facebook.
The Moana dance group was formed last year as part of work with parents to try to build a sense of belonging for the college’s Māori students. The dance group has become so strong it is now offered as an elective for Years 8, 9 and 10.
The course involves language, dance, music and traditions that help to reconnect the students to their culture. There are now more than 50 students involved.
Principal Alison Parolo said she is proud that this is student-driven.
“We have provided the opportunity and we as a college have provided the students the support and encouragement,” Ms Parolo said.
“What about us that is different is our culture but there is something that we all are, we are all part of the same school community. I want every single person in our school community – staff, adults and students – to feel seen, to feel heard, and to feel valued. That’s what this is about. We see you, we hear you and we value you.”
Local Aboriginal elder and cultural custodian Vaughn McGuire.
Ellenbrook Secondary College unveiled the latest mural masterpiece designed by students from their multicultural committee.
The unveiling included a smoking ceremony from local Aboriginal elder and cultural custodian Vaughn McGuire, who spoke about the importance of coming together across all cultures.
The Harmony Day event was followed by the committee organising and sharing cuisines across many nationalities and countries.
Check out more photos on the Ellenbrook Secondary College Facebook.
Lunch time activities at Byford Secondary College involved flag making and a Harmony Day photo booth.
Their Interact club also made hundreds of orange ribbons for students to wear to show their support.
Check out more photos on the Byford Secondary College Facebook.
Sevenoaks students on Harmony Day.
Sevenoaks Senior College kicked off celebrations with an Acknowledgment of Country from Kayleen Hayward, an Aboriginal teacher.
Students were given the opportunity to take part in African drumming, lawn games, a wildlife experience, umbrella painting and get henna tattoos.
The hospitality students and teachers prepared international foods.
The college topped off celebrations with performances from students and staff and traditional dance performances, from Aboriginal spiritual dance to African dance, belly dance and traditional Polynesian dance.
Check out the photos and videos on the Sevenoaks Senior College Facebook.