Our approach to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Education is strengths based and we are committed to meeting the needs and aspirations of all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students.
Student Aspirations Program
The Student Aspirations Program promotes participation in leadership opportunities; and supports the retention and attainment of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students, focusing on pathways and transitions between schools, stages of schooling and beyond.
Secondary and tertiary scholarships
The Education Directorate administers two scholarship programs specifically for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students:
- The Secondary Scholarship Program for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students in years 11 and 12 supports student retention and year 12 completion by providing recipients with financial support in their final years of secondary study. Applications open at the end of Term 2 for the duration of Term 3 and are to be completed by the student with support from their teachers.
- The Tertiary Scholarship Program is for students from an ACT public school enrolled in a teaching course at an ACT university. Students from NSW public schools in the Canberra region are also invited to apply but ACT public school students are prioritised.
Mura Awards
The Mura Awards initiative recognises student achievement and provides an opportunity for schools to acknowledge the consistent effort of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students in their schooling and to engage with families and the local community. The small bursaries attached to the Mura Awards encourage participation in education by providing some financial assistance for educational expenses such as excursions and uniforms. Mura Awards are open to students in key transition years.
Broaden Your Horizons
Broaden Your Horizons is a career education event for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students in years 9 to 12. Broaden Your Horizons events provide participants with opportunities to engage with staff from a broad range of occupations and professions and to learn about different pathways into training and employment.
Koori Preschools in the ACT
Koori Preschool provides 15 hours per week of preschool education for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children aged 3-5 years in a culturally safe setting. Children from birth to three years can attend a Koori Preschool when accompanied by a parent or guardian.
Koori Preschools are located at the following ACT public schools:
- Kingsford Smith School
- Narrabundah Early Childhood School
- Ngunnawal Primary School
- Richardson Primary School
- Wanniassa School.
Click here for information about Koori Preschools.