Gowrie NSW releases innovative RAP which will have significant impact on programs

Early childhood education and care (ECEC) provider Gowrie NSW recently celebrated the launch of its second Innovate Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP) strengthening the organisation’s vision for reconciliation, and commitment to an Australia that respects and celebrates First Nations Peoples.

“Gowrie NSW is committed to bringing about positive social change and strengthening relationships,” CEO Nicole Jones outlined, saying that in order to achieve this vision, all Australians need to acknowledge past injustices to move forward together.

“Since our first Innovate RAP, Gowrie NSW has worked hard to support reconciliation and importantly how this work is reflected in our educational programs with children,” she added. 

“We understand the critical role we play in providing opportunities for our youngest of citizens to develop a rich understanding of Australia’s First Nations Peoples perspectives, cultures, and knowledge.”

The second RAP builds on children’s growing knowledge of reconciliation and why this is so important, and is underpinned by the organisational values of care, inclusion, integrity, authenticity and purpose. It is these values, Ms Jones said, that will drive the journey forward. 

Special features of the second RAP include a framework on how the Gowrie NSW team – as individuals and collectively as an organisation – will strengthen relationships with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples, and information about how Gowrie NSW will demonstrate respect and build opportunities into the future. 

The RAP was launched virtually in a format that brought educators, children and support teams from across the organisation together, on the special occasion of Aboriginal & Torres Strait Islander Children’s Day, reflecting the 2021 theme of Proud in Culture, Strong in Spirit. 

“Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children have the right to experience and be proud of their culture, history and beliefs,” Ms Jones said. “I see a strong connection to our own organisational vision and our hope for children.”

To view the Gowrie NSW Innovate RAP, please see here.