Celebrating National Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Children’s Day

This year’s theme, “Living Our Truth,” highlights the importance of recognising Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander histories, cultures, identities, and the sharing of knowledge across generations.

To begin our celebrations, both Primary and Secondary student leaders prepared and delivered a special Acknowledgement of Country during Tuesday’s assemblies. The acknowledgements reflected the theme of Living Our Truth and provided an opportunity for our students and staff to recognise the Traditional Custodians of the land, their enduring connection to Country, and the importance of respecting Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures.

Throughout the week, Storytelling staff visited Primary classrooms to facilitate engaging Aboriginal storytime sessions. Students explored Aboriginal books and stories while learning about Acknowledgement of Country, Custodians of Country, native Australian animals, and the important role that storytelling plays in Aboriginal cultures.

For our Foundation to Year 2 students, Ms Tanja, Ms Gulhan, and Ms Hanan led interactive storytelling activities designed to introduce students to Aboriginal perspectives in an age-appropriate and engaging way.

During each session, students listened to Aboriginal stories and discussed important concepts including Acknowledgement of Country, the role of Traditional Custodians of the land, and the deep connection Aboriginal peoples have with Country, culture, and community. Students also explored the importance of caring for country, our native Australian animals, land and waterways.

Students in Years 3 to 6 participated in the “Story Keepers” activity, facilitated by Ms Hadeer. These sessions explored the significance of oral storytelling: How stories, knowledge, traditions, and cultural teachings have been passed down through generations by being shared from one person to another.

Students learned that storytelling is more than just sharing a story; it is a powerful way of preserving history, strengthening identity, and connecting communities across generations. The week provided our students with valuable opportunities to listen, learn, ask questions, and celebrate the richness and diversity of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures.

We thank all staff and student leaders involved in creating these meaningful learning experiences and for supporting our ongoing commitment to cultural understanding and respect.