On Country Teaching Program Celebrates First Graduation of Indigenous Educators at Curtin University

Curtin University has celebrated the graduation of six participants from its On Country Education Teaching Initiative, marking a significant milestone for the program. Launched in 2020 with funding from the Western Australian Department of Education, this initiative aims to assist Indigenous staff in regional and remote areas who are working in classroom support roles in becoming qualified primary school teachers.

Program Overview

The program primarily utilized online learning, which allowed participants to balance their studies with ongoing employment and community engagement. In addition, a working group, supported by school staff, was established to promote the initiative’s success and enhance the educational experience for the graduates.

Recognition from University Leadership

Professor Harlene Hayne, Vice-Chancellor of Curtin University, recognized the accomplishments of the graduates and highlighted the unique challenges that Indigenous students may encounter in higher education. She expressed confidence that the new educators would have a positive impact on their classrooms and communities.

Program Structure

The graduates completed all units of the four-year Bachelor of Education (Primary Education) program together, with classes delivered online in trimesters. Workshops were held at the start of each term to facilitate connections with faculty and provide study materials that were culturally relevant, incorporating the 8 Aboriginal Ways of Learning framework.

Significance in the Teaching Workforce

Associate Professor Graeme Gower, who leads the program, noted the initiative’s significance in addressing a considerable gap in the teaching workforce. Indigenous teachers currently represent only 2% of the national teaching workforce, with just 1.2% in Western Australia.

Government Support and Future Aspirations

Education Minister Dr. Tony Buti also acknowledged the graduates, emphasizing the importance of increasing the representation of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander teachers in Western Australian schools. He expressed hope that these new educators would serve as role models for Aboriginal students and contribute to their educational and social achievements.

(Source: Curtin University)