Our commitment
We are committed to closing the achievement gap for Aboriginal students. We know that we need to learn about, nurture and value the cultural identity of our Aboriginal students in order to assist them to be successful learners.
We welcome Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander family members, parents and community members to our school so that we can get to know each other, learn about the local Aboriginal community and develop shared goals and plans for Aboriginal students.
Aboriginal education at South Sydney High School
Our school has been acknowledged as a best practice school in Aboriginal education by DET Aboriginal consultants and DEWR. We are actively involved with the local AECG and seek to work with our local community.
The Aboriginal Education Team has worked extensively with Dr Ray Bale from the What Works program to develop and implement culturally appropriate and relevant programs for our students.
Personalised learning plans
All of our students have Personalised Learning Plans. A number of parents/caregivers have been involved in planning days, workshops and inservices.
We continue to seek opportunities for our students to engage with the Aboriginal community and increase their cultural awareness.
In 2010 students were involved in Regional Great Debate at NSW Parliament House, the World Vision Young Mob Leaders camp at NCIE Redfern and the Indigenous Veterans Memorial Ceremony.
Learning support
Senior students receive tutoring through Two Ways Together funding. Junior students receive learning support where applicable through Norta Norta funding. One of or students applied for and received a Regional student scholarship.
Aboriginal students are involved in Nura Gili Winter School Mathematics and Orientation programs at UNSW.
Students are also encouraged to attend career days such as the Indigenous Health Workers Day at RPA and take advantage of Indigenous traineeships.
Encouraging leadership
Students are encouraged to develop their leadership skills. Our 2013 school captain, an Aboriginal student, was MC at the Sydney Regional Deadly Awards and a representative at the Youth Summit on the Gold Coast.
Bush Tucker garden
Students and parents have been involved with Randwick Council in the planning and planting of the Bush Tucker garden, which is an ongoing project.
The Southern Koori
We have a student newsletter, the Southern Koori, which is written, edited and produced by our Aboriginal students each term.