Educators Learning Circle
In photo: John Maume, Alissa Payne, Paula Callaghan
As Benarrawa CD workers and Solidarity members worked alongside Elders and First Nation community members with local schools to increase access to cultural knowledge, it became clear to us that while the national curriculum requires teachers to embed cultural knowledge in their subject areas, there was and is, very little support or resourcing available. Benarrawa CD workers then in consultation with community decided it was time to establish a space for teachers and schools to gather to learn, discuss, share ideas and knowledge. We did this with First Nations Elders to increase access to cultural knowledge. The overarching aims being to develop mutual, reciprocal relationships and to provide practical support for educating students into the future.
The first Educators Learning Circle was hosted in early February 2018 with the support of Gaja Kerry Charlton, a local Traditional Custodian, and Uncle James Sandy, the then cultural support person from the Queensland Department of Education.
The Educators Learning Circle is now a regular gathering of local teachers, staff, parents and community members interested in the embedding of Indigenous perspectives in their schools. Benarrawa provides a space and facilitates the circle where people are able to ask questions, share ideas, create solutions and connect with Indigenous Elders and culture holders. The Circles are held once a term on the third Tuesday at 4pm at Benarrawa Place (79 Waratah Ave, Graceville).
** UPDATE** There is now also a Early Educators Learning circle that has bubbled out of the fact that there are different learning needs and opportunities for young learners (0-7 years) and their educators. This group currently meets once a term on either the third or fourth Monday of term 2-4pm.
All are welcome at both these learning circles. Please contact us for more information.