Moruya Public School

Excellence and Equity in Education - Live and Learn

Telephone02 4474 2363

Emailmoruya-p.school@det.nsw.edu.au

Our Aboriginal Education Officer (AEO)

Kylie Parsons AEO

walawaani njindiwan! (Welcome everyone!)

I am thrilled to introduce myself as the Aboriginal Education Officer at Moruya Public School. As a proud Yuin woman, I am deeply connected to this land and its rich cultural heritage. I am excited to embark on this journey with our students, families, and the wider community to enhance Aboriginal education and support the learning of all our students.

My role is centred around fostering a strong partnership between the school and Aboriginal families. Together, we can create a nurturing environment that celebrates our cultural identity and promotes educational success.

My goal is to provide support that empowers our Aboriginal students, helping them to thrive academically, socially, and culturally.

Building on the work of AEOs who have come before me, I look forward to working closely with everyone in our school community to develop programs, resources, and initiatives that reflect our shared values and promote understanding and respect for Aboriginal culture.

Please feel free to reach out to me if you have any questions, ideas, or if you simply want to connect. 

My office is always open, and I encourage you to drop by anytime! You can also reach me at the school on 4474 2363. Plus, I invite you to join us for our Yarn-Up Afternoon Teas held each term, where parents, families, and community members can come together. 

I am excited about the opportunities that lie ahead and am eager to work together to create a brighter future for our students. 

Kylie 

The History of AEOs at Moruya Public School 

The history of Aboriginal Education Officers (AEOs) at Moruya Public School reflects a significant commitment to supporting Aboriginal students, families, staff and the wider community.

The journey began in 1988 with the employment of Mrs. Kerry Boyenga as an Aboriginal Education Assistant (AEA). Mrs. Boyenga played a crucial role in fostering a culturally inclusive environment and providing support to Aboriginal students and their families. Her work laid the foundation for the ongoing commitment to Aboriginal education at the school.

Over the years, the role of AEOs has evolved, and the school has seen the involvement of various educators dedicated to Aboriginal education. Notably, Craig Connell and Uncle Darryl Cruise have contributed significantly to the program. 

AEOs at Moruya Public School have been instrumental in implementing programs that support Aboriginal identity, community engagement, and cultural awareness among all students and staff. Their efforts have not only benefited Aboriginal students but have also promoted a deeper understanding and respect for Aboriginal culture within the broader school community.

The ongoing work of AEOs at Moruya Public School continues to be a vital part of the school's mission to provide an inclusive and supportive learning environment for all students.

 

The Role of an AEO 

The AEO provides assistance to our teachers, Aboriginal students, and their families to support improved leaning, welfare, and wellbeing outcomes for Aboriginal students. The duties of the AEO can include: 

Working with teachers:

  • to assist Aboriginal students in all school activities including excursions

  • to discuss with Aboriginal parents the educational progress of their children

  • to identify and develop resources to support the learning outcomes of Aboriginal students

  • to assist in the development and implementation of Personalised Learning Plans (PLP) for

Aboriginal students

  • to support Aboriginal cultural awareness for all students with particular reference to Aboriginal students

  • to help maintain effective relationships between Aboriginal parents, the Aboriginal community and school staff.

Working as part of a school team to support students:

  • in relation to their school participation and programs

  • in relation to their attendance and retention

Liaising with the Principal and staff:

  • on protocols for interacting with the Aboriginal community in relation to staff and Aboriginal students in the school and Aboriginal education activities.

Other Duties:

  • Performing other related duties as required by the Principal.