The Curriciulum

History

The Kaiela Dhungala First Nations Curriculum started as a project initiated by the Koorie Partnership Group of the local Principal’s Network. 

This group consisting of Principals, teachers, community members, representatives from local First Nations organisations and the Department of Education collaboratively developed the curriculum framework, guided and led by ongoing community consultation. 

The original curriculum resources were developed after further consultation with local First Nations organisations, including Yorta Yorta Nations Aboriginal Corporation, Ganbina, Bangerang Cultural Centre, Parks Victoria, Rumbalara Aboriginal Cooperative, Kaiela Arts, Shepparton Reconciliation Group, The Academy of Sport, Health, and Education (ASHE), La Trobe University, and Empowered Communities. 

The Victorian Aboriginal Education Association Incorporated (VAEAI), Goulburn Valley Aboriginal Education Consultative Group (GVAECG) and the Department of Education’s Koorie Engagement Unit were also involved in this process.

A number of teachers were involved with the development of the original project resources.  These teachers volunteered their own time, to develop curriculum and undertake the supporting professional development, demonstrating their commitment and dedication.

Vision

The Vision for the Kaiela Dhungala First Peoples Curriculum is:

For all students to:

For First Nations students to:
  • Recognise and realise that there was an existing culture and peoples, specific to this area, and that this was fully formed and complex;
  • Recognise that this is a living and vibrant culture;
  • Embrace this culture and identity as a positive; and 
  • Accept it as just as important as non-Indigenous culture.
  • Have their cultural identity bring them a sense of pride, confidence and sense of importance;
  • For this to lead to improved outcomes, attendance, retention etc.


The resource and the professional development program complement and assist schools to meet the requirements of the Victorian Curriculum (including the intercultural capability), the Marrung Aboriginal Education Plan 2016-2026, and the Australian Institute for Teaching and Leadership (AITL) Standards.

Overview - Cross-curriculum Priorities - Victorian Curriculum (vcaa.vic.edu.au)

Marrung_Aboriginal_Education_Plan_2016-2026.pdf