Reconciliation plan in place at another Glenelg Shire kindergarten

The Glenelg Shire’s youngest will continue to be taught with a focus on reconciliation, with another shire managed Kindergarten implementing its own Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP).

Kalbarri Kindergarten, located in Portland’s west, have recently launched their Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP). The strategic document focuses on building community connections, fostering respect within the classroom and ensuring reconciliation and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander current affairs are integrated into the curriculum. The service is now the fifth Children’s Service managed by Glenelg Shire Council which has its own RAP.

“We’re proud to launch another RAP for one of our early learning centres, and we thank the Kalbarri Kindergarten team, families and broader community for all their efforts in putting this important document together,” said Glenelg Shire Acting Children’s Services Manager Shelley Bourke. “Reconciliation is an ongoing journey – we understand the importance of working in partnerships with First Nations people to get a greater understanding and appreciation of their culture and values.

“This document will guide Kalbarri Kindergarten’s commitments over the next 12 months. This ranges from curriculum planning, to how the Kinder recognises important events such as National Reconciliation Week and teaching the origin and meanings behind the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander flags.

“Overall, we hope to increase our inclusive learning environment whereby our Shire’s youngest can acknowledge and celebrate Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander histories, cultures and contributions.”

A copy of Kalbarri Kindergarten’s RAP can be accessed online via the Narragunnawali website.

RECONCILIATION PLAN LAUNCHED: Taylan Kennedy, Carly Thompson & Sophie Plowman Hintz