08 December 2023
A Perth school’s commitment to reconciliation has earned recognition at the national level.
Winterfold Primary School was named winner of the Narragunnawali Awards – a national award that celebrates schools for actively engaging future generations in reconciliation by placing Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander histories, cultures and perspectives at the heart of learning.
Winterfold Primary School has been selected as one of three national finalists in the Narragunnawali Awards.
The school was recognised for making reconciliation a top priority and creating a culturally safe environment for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students and their families.
Winterfold Primary School has a Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP) which guides the school’s commitments.
Initiatives include teaching students about Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures, histories and language.
There is also regular celebration of Noongar culture, particularly at the annual NAIDOC Week event, Kaadadjiny Kedala – Cultural Learning Day.
Noongar Elders, artists and speakers are engaged to share their knowledge, which has encouraged the building of strong community links over time.
Winterfold Primary School principal Kim Calabrese said it was fantastic for the school.
“Since my arrival to Winterfold Primary School earlier this year I have seen firsthand just how embedded and valued reconciliation is to our school community,” she said.
“Everyone has a vital role to play and at Winterfold Primary School it is done exceptionally.
“With our committed staff and unbridled support from our school community, the journey to cultural responsiveness is our Winterfold way.”
The judging panel, chaired by Sharon Davis, praised the winners for including Indigenous perspectives in the curriculum.
“The impact of the initiatives demonstrated by these finalists cannot be overestimated on the broader Australian society. These schools and services present a brighter future for our students and the country,” Ms Davis said.