New ACT initiatives aim to boost First Nations cultural inclusion and responsiveness

The Australian Capital Territory Government has launched new initiatives in early childhood education that relate to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultural inclusion and responsiveness.

Comprising professional learning, on-country excursions and scholarships the initiatives have been developed in line with Phase Two of Set up for Success, the Government’s 10-year plan for early childhood.

They will assist both educators and young learners and include:

• a culturally inclusive and responsive practices professional learning program

• Birrigai on country excursions for preschool students

• the Aunty Agnes Shea Early Childhood Scholarship program for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander educators.

The professional learning program

The ACT Government partnered with Community Early Learning Australia (CELA) in 2023 to develop the program.

CELA worked closely with the local Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander community and an Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Expert Panel.

This collaboration has ensured the program reflects local culture and meets the community’s needs – now and into the future. It relates particularly to cultural safety and integrity.

The online program will support ACT educators to:

• reflect on and engage in their own cultural integrity journey

• deliver culturally responsive and inclusive practices for young learners.

Connection to Country excursions

The Government has also launched preschool excursions at Birrigai Outdoor School. These Connection to Country excursions will complement the professional learning program.

Excursions began in Term 4 2024. They will continue through semester one of 2025, allowing young children to connect with and explore Ngunnawal Country.

The Aunty Agnes Shea Early Childhood Scholarship program

There is also a new scholarship program for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander early childhood educators.

The Aunty Agnes Shea Early Childhood Scholarship program offers financial support for up to 10 people per year, offering recipients:

• the chance to study a Diploma or Degree in early childhood education

• paid leave arrangements

• wraparound supports.

The program will prioritise:

• educators working in ACT Koori Preschools

• those already working in the early childhood sector.

It will also aim to attract Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander community members into joining the early childhood education profession.

Find out more on the ACT Education website. Image shows proud Bundjalung woman and Koori preschool co-educator Amelie Lapworth with students at Narrabundah Early Childhood School.