“I wanted to drive change in my classroom and as a First Nations man from the Tiwi Islands in the Northern Territory, I knew exactly where to start,” – St Luke’s School Capalaba Prep teacher Aaron Christensen.
St Luke’s Prep teacher and First Nations man Aaron Christensen is working to make a difference in the lives of his students this NAIDOC week (2 to 9 July).
“I am very proud to be a First Nations person and I wanted to share my heritage with my students,” he said.
“Seeing my students learn about my First Nations culture was a proud and special moment for me.”
Developing his own English unit in line with the Australian Curriculum last year, Aaron taught his Year 1 students about his Aboriginal heritage.
“The unit was focused on the book No Way Yirrikipayi,” Aaron said.
“I taught my students about the Tiwi Islands and the native animals that live there, and at the end of the unit, my students created art pieces which reflected their learnings.
“In line with our school’s cross-cultural priorities, I was able to link my teachings back to the Quandamooka area, educating students about the animals which are native to the land on which our school is situated.
“My students have benefitted from this English unit because it has also allowed them to develop a deeper connection with our land and the natural world, which is integral as we continue to work towards Closing The Gap.”
St Luke’s School Principal Denita Castley praised Aaron’s dedication and initiative.
“Our students will be the ones to continue to help Close the Gap, and the work Aaron is doing with them now to understand First Nations culture and perspectives, is integral to their future and our community’s future,” she said.
For more information about St Luke’s School Capalaba and to enrol click here.
About National NAIDOC Week:
NAIDOC Week celebrates and recognise the history, culture, and achievements of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. NAIDOC Week is an opportunity for all Australians to learn about First Nations cultures and histories and participate in celebrations of the oldest, continuous living cultures on earth.