Reconciliation Week 2020

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Reconciliation Week 27 May- 3 June 2020  

A key practice in the learning frameworks of early childhood education and care is the notion of cultural competence. This applies to all cultures within our services and particularly as one of our guiding principles from the Education and Care National Law, the cultures of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.

National Reconciliation Week is a time for all Australians to learn about and celebrate Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures, histories and achievements. All Australians are encouraged to reflect on the part they play on our journey towards achieving reconciliation in Australia.

Whilst it may not be possible to invite your families and community to come together to encourage awareness and learning about National Reconciliation Week, this doesn’t mean your service can’t get involved in a whole range of activities to support and celebrate Reconciliation.

This year’s theme is In This Together and 2020 marks the twentieth anniversary of the reconciliation walks of 2000.

Reconciliation is a journey for all Australians- as individuals, families, communities and importantly as a nation. Every one of us has a role to play when it comes to reconciliation and having a conversation is really important to understand what Reconciliation Week is all about.

The National launch is on Wednesday 27 May 2020 at 12pm with an Acknowledgement of Country.

Wherever your service is located, take time to acknowledge the traditional owners of the land and pay your respects.        #InThisTogether2020      #NRW2020

Reconciliation Australia has some excellent suggestions for schools and early learning services to help children be get involved.

Ideas may include:

  • Create and conduct your own Acknowledgement of Country
  • Create actions for your Acknowledgement
  • Watch and discuss Play School: Acknowledgment of Country
  • Display Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander flags
  • Share books and scaffold discussions about the country described within these (Colours of Australia– Bronwyn Bancroft; Where the Forest Meets the Sea– Jeannie Baker)
  • Connect with your local Aboriginal land council or Elders group (perhaps even organise a zoom meeting)
  • Have a Yarn with colleagues about reconciliation
  • View samples of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Art
  • Hold a TED talk screening for your staff meeting told by Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders peoples
  • Reflect on your service’s Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP) or begin your journey. See the Narragunnawali platform to assist in developing your plan.

Policies within the Childcare Centre Desktop library incorporating cultural competency include:

  • Anti-Bias and Inclusion Policy
  • Respect for Children Policy
  • Interactions with children, families and staff Policy
  • Non-English Speaking Background Policy
  • Celebrations Policy and
  • Multicultural Policy