NEWBERY Park Primary School students developed their knowledge and understanding of Aboriginal culture through an educational session, which encouraged them to “listen to their elders”.
Boandik elder Aunty Michelle Jacquelin-Furr led the session, which was held in partnership with Forestry SA’s Lower South East Biodiversity Corridors Project and coordinated by Nature Glenelg Trust’s project ecologist Rose Thompson.
NPPS school support officer Angela Jones said students usually participate in excursions as part of the school’s forestry program, however this term a number of interactive “incursions” were organised.
“Aunty Michelle was invited to join us and talk about her latest book, Annie’s Story,” she said.
“Her great grandmother was brought up at Penola Station so she published this book about the South East area – it is really cool.”
As well as sharing Annie’s Story, Aunty Michelle passed on her knowledge about Indigenous culture and brought along artefacts – including a possum cloak and two footballs made of native Australian animals – with her to share with the students.
Students were also given the opportunity to ask any questions before they tried their hand at weaving.
Ms Jones said each class from reception through to Year 7 attended the session, which ran for around 45 minutes to an hour.
“It has been about engaging the kids,” she said.
“We have changed it up a little bit for different age groups, but Aunty Michelle has had them eating out of her hands basically.
“She has been good to watch.
“Nowadays, Aboriginal education is cross curriculum so it is supposed to be taught through every single subject.
“These sessions have been a great way to get all the kids exposed to a local story.
“Aunty Michelle also spoke about the Craitbul story.
“It is very much a local perspective.”
