Our Aboriginal Education Officer (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 Aboriginal Education Officer provides mentoring and support to Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander students and their families by assisting school staff to improve the learning, cultural understanding and wellbeing for Aboriginal and /or Torres Strait Islander students.
- assist Aboriginal students in all school activities, including excursions
- discuss with Aboriginal parent/s, carers and/or guardians the educational needs and aspirations of their children
- identify and collaboratively assist in developing resources to support the learning outcomes of Aboriginal students
- assist in the development and implementation of personalised learning pathways for Aboriginal students
- establish and maintain effective relationships between Aboriginal parents, carers and/or guardians, the Aboriginal community and school staff.
- participation in school programs
- attendance and retention
- on protocols for interacting with the Aboriginal community in relation to staff and Aboriginal students in the school and Aboriginal education activities.
- where appropriate, be a point of contact to support staff and students with gaining a deeper understanding of the Cultural expectations and nuances regarding Aboriginal students.
- to undertake the provision of first aid and administration of medications for students as required
- related duties within the scope of the role as asked by the principal.
Our dhurga Language Program
Since 2020, Moruya Public School has proudly included dhurga (the local Aboriginal language) Language Program in its curriculum for all students in Years 4 to 6.
Our Local Yuin History & Culture
Moruya Public School is located on the traditional lands of the Brinja Yuin people.