Jarara Indigenous Education Unit - Catholic Schools Parramatta Diocese Ltd

Aboriginal And Torres Strait Islander Education

Creating an inclusive and outstanding learning environment for young Aboriginal people and their families.

Catholic Schools Parramatta Diocese (CSPD) recognises and respects the heritage, spirituality, cultures and deep connection to Country of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.

We are committed to creating inclusive and outstanding learning environments for all young people. Aboriginal education is incorporated on a daily basis into the curriculum of our 80 Primary and Secondary schools across Western Sydney and the Blue Mountains, from early education through to post-school options.

Aboriginal And Torres Strait Islander Education - Jarara - Catholic Schools Parramatta Diocese Ltd

What schools in the Diocese of Parramatta learn

Our schools include the following as the basis for learning and teaching programs:

seeking cultural advice and understanding

Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal students coming together

sharing of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander history

building connections and relationships within and beyond the classroom

student engagement

Aboriginal content and perspectives embedded in all Key Learning Areas

embedding Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander histories and cultures into the school strategic plan

building staff and students’ cultural knowledge about Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander culture, histories and experiences

Personalising learning for each student

demonstrating that Aboriginal culture is truly valued in the school environment.

A number of our schools have dedicated yarning spaces, cultural groups and inclusive Aboriginal Cultural Programs. An understanding of Aboriginal spirituality is incorporated into Religious Education programs, prayer and liturgy.

Aboriginal Education - St Thomas Aquinas Primary Springwood - Catholic Schools Parramatta Diocese Ltd

Jarara Cultural Centre

‘Jarara’ is a Wiradjuri word meaning ‘water tumbling over rocks’.

Working closely with Catholic Schools NSW and all CSPD staff, our Jarara Cultural Centre is an integral part of how we share culture, build capacity and provide pastoral care for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students and their families.

Jarara Cultural Centre

We believe that all cultural differences are to be valued and are a rich resource to learn from.

An appreciation of these differences is fundamental to building relationships. We also believe that high self esteem and sense of identity are vital for the effective learning and personal growth of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students.