23 August 2023
A Perth school’s commitment to reconciliation has earned recognition at the national level.
Winterfold Primary School has been selected as one of three finalists in the Narragunnawali Awards – a national award that celebrates Australian schools and early learning services with outstanding reconciliation initiatives.
Winterfold Primary School has been selected as one of three national finalists in the Narragunnawali Awards.
Finalists are acknowledged for strengthening relationships, building respect, and providing meaningful opportunities in the classroom, around the school, and with the community.
The school was recognised for making reconciliation a top priority and creating a culturally safe environment for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students and their families.
Winterfold Primary School has a Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP) which guides the school’s reconciliation commitments.
Initiatives include teaching students about Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures, histories and language.
There is also regular celebration of Noongar culture, particularly at the annual NAIDOC Week event, Kaadadjiny Kedala – Cultural Learning Day.
Noongar Elders, artists and speakers are engaged to share their knowledge, which has encouraged the building of strong community links over time.
Winterfold Primary School principal Kim Calabrese said it was fantastic for the school to be named a finalist.
“Since my arrival to Winterfold Primary School earlier this year I have seen firsthand just how embedded and valued reconciliation is to our school community,” she said.
“Everyone has a vital role to play and at Winterfold Primary School it is done exceptionally.
“With our committed staff and unbridled support from our school community, the journey to cultural responsiveness is our Winterfold way.”