Culture, community and creativity – new ECEC service has multicultural focus

Edge Early Learning (EEL) latest centre in Zillmere has worked closely with members from the Queensland Department of Education, Council Libraries, and community and support groups, Save The Children and KU Inclusion, ahead of its June 7 opening, with the intention of delivering an inclusive space for children of the Zillmere community. 

Inspired by three pillars: culture, community and creativity, the centre is committed to providing local families with a safe and inclusive environment that celebrates different cultures and teaches children about multicultural society.

“Zillmere is a beautiful, culturally diverse area, and we want to ensure everyone feels welcome in our centre,” Edge Early Learning’s Regional Manager, Peta Rix said.

A mural designed in collaboration with local Brisbane Artist Carley Cornelissen will bring the vision of the service to life, incorporating native Australian animals and the word for “welcome”, (Wunya), in the local Turrbal language.

“The mural will be a wonderful acknowledgment of our area’s cultural diversity and will represent other languages from the incredible mix of local nationalities in the area including Filipino, Samoan, Punjabi, Hindi, Sudanese, Nepali, to name a few,” Ms Rix explained. 

A piece of original art by aboriginal artist Joe Malone will also feature in the service in the main reception and family area of the service. 

Continuing a focus on inclusivity, Ms Rix said the Zillmere service is also honoured to be working with a local Indigenous Elder who has offered to support as Indigenous Cultural Advisor, working with the Centre, to present historical truths and perspectives as part of the service’s reconciliation journey, working towards Reconciliation Action Plans (RAPs) for all Edge centres.

As well as focussing on inclusivity, Zillmere will implement a tailored Active Early Learning curriculum and various parent partnership programs.

For more information, visit the Edge website.