How to Support the Cultural Identity of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Students

The recording of this webinar is available in the Professional Development library, under Inclusive Education

Clea North is a proud Aboriginal woman and descendent of the Mithaka and Gunggari people of south-west Queensland. 

Clea, an Education Consultant for Life Without Barriers, advocates for children and young people living in out-of-home care and collaborates with schools to support trauma informed and culturally responsive practices.

In this webinar, Clea will explore the key focus areas to support the cultural identity of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students and provide you with practical tools, strategies and testimonials of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Island people working in education.

Cultural Context
Within Australia, there are two distinct First Nation cultures: Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander.

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students are from the oldest living culture in the world. When an Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander student enters education, they bring a specific connection to the sacred spirit of this country, a connection which should be acknowledged, celebrated, and shared. An Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander student’s identity, culture and language comes from a connection with their family and their relationship with the land and sea and their people. 

With every new generation, Dreamtime stories, kinship systems, language, cultural practices, values and beliefs are being restored to life, and with this comes a new level of consciousness and truth telling. All Australians belong to this reclaiming and revitalisation.