Our commitment to First Nations education
Dedicated and Passionate Staff
At Marrickville Public School, we are deeply committed to celebrating and valuing Aboriginal culture. We provide all students with meaningful opportunities to learn about Aboriginal culture and language through engaging classroom activities and connected curriculum experiences that authentically incorporate First Nations perspectives. Our school environment supports the education of every student while fostering a strong sense of belonging and cultural connection for our Aboriginal students. Guided by the philosophy of 'walking together, playing together, and growing up together,' we actively collaborate with Aboriginal communities to work towards shared goals. Together, we celebrate the achievements of our students and the broader community, nurturing respect, understanding, and unity for a brighter future.
Yarning Circle
Marrickville Public School collaborated with Uncle Paul Dingwall to develop our Yarning Circle. This is a space for students to connect to Country and to learn, build and share cultural knowledge. Teaching and learning take place with a deep respect for cultural connections, emphasising the importance of listening and honouring cultural significance.
The totem poles were carved by Archibald Prize winning artist, Blak Douglas (pictured above) and contain culturally significant symbols and words including Bullanaming(Marrickville) and Cadigal Land for the people of the land on which Marrickville Public School stands.
Each year we hold a Smoking Ceremony in our Yarning Circle, led by Uncle Elvis Fields, to celebrate NAIDOC Week.
A smoking ceremony is an ancient cultural ritual where local native plants are burned to create smoke. The smoke is believed to have physical and spiritual cleansing properties—purifying the area, warding off bad spirits, and promoting the health and well-being of participants.
This ceremony brings together our whole community in celebration of our First Nations people, culture, healing and traditions.
Acknowledgement of Country
What is an Acknowledgement of Country?
An Acknowledgement of Country is a statement that shows respect for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples as the Traditional Owners of the land. Usually given at the start of meetings, speeches, or events, it recognises their enduring connection to the land, waters, and culture. Here is our Acknowledge of Country written in collaboration by our Aboriginal students and community Elders:
We would like to acknowledge the traditional owners and custodians of this land, the Gadigal peoples of the Eora nation. We appreciate the waterways, mountains, sky, plants and animals from this place.
We acknowledge our ancestors and elders, those before us, with us and those to come, thanking them for their teachings and knowledge.
We recognise our special connection to this land and dreaming through our dance, song, taste, touch and dreams.
We respect the spiritual systems of our people and walk gently together across this country.
Artwork created by Jessie Warratah Simon alongside the First Nations students in 2018. Everyone can come together, all are welcome.
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