Acknowledgement of Country
We acknowledge the First Nations peoples of Australia, the traditional custodians of the land, seas, skies and waterways on which we reside, work, travel and meet. We pay our respect to First Nations elders past, present, and emerging, and support the Uluru Statement From The Heart. We acknowledge that the land, seas, skies and waterways of Australia were, are and always will be, that of the First Nations peoples.
Support in our schools
Catholic Education promotes and supports the unique and diverse cultural needs of First Nations students, their parents and communities. Through the development of quality relationships between child, teacher and parents, the uniqueness and giftedness of each student is appreciated and valued.
We are committed to working towards five priority areas in First Nations Education:
- Early Childhood Education
- School and Community Educational Partnerships
- School Leadership
- Quality Teaching, and
- Training, Employment and Higher Education
Our schools focus on the holistic growth and development of each student, by recognising and affirming First Nations peoples’ culture in a faith based, welcoming, caring, relaxed learning environment. Our school environments promote a sense of belonging and development spiritually, physically, socially, emotionally and academically. We recognise the great cultural diversity among First Nations families and communities, and value information and insight in how to integrate cultural diversity into the curriculum.
As we welcome those who seek to share our life, the number of First Nations students in our schools continues to show a steady increase. School communities endeavour to communicate current educational trends in a culturally appropriate and effective manner, and provide ongoing assistance in developing understanding with families.
First Nations Liaison Officers are employed in all our schools. These officers facilitate good communication between the school and the home community. Through sponsorship of First Nations employees within our schools, we seek to provide positive role models for the students in our school communities.
Professional Learning is ongoing for staff in our schools, and workshops for parents and carers of First Nations children are offered in our schools.
Our Catholic schools provide supportive classrooms and school environments that encourage all students in diverse learning and support their individual needs.
The Spirits Are Calling
Here is a fantastic video where students from Mount St Bernard College, Herberton and St Monica’s College, Cairns express pride in their First Nations heritage through traditional song, dance and language.
