Reconciliation

‘Behold I create new heavens in which life,

justice and peace are possible for all’.

(Isaiah  65:17-25)

Celebrating Culture and Connection 

At Surrey Hills Early Learning Centre, we have people from over 35 different nationalities attending the Centre.  We believe in fostering respect, inclusivity, and cultural awareness from a young age.  Along with authentically celebrating and learning about many cultures to enhance the families and children’s sense of self, we authentically embrace Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander education across all program areas, enabling the children to develop a deep understanding and appreciation of Australia’s First Nations cultures. 

Bringing First Nations Education into the Classroom  

We respect the original custodians of our shared land, valuing their wisdom in our practices. 

Through storytelling, music, art, and hands-on experiences, our First Nations Education program introduces children to the richness and diversity of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander traditions. This approach allows children to explore one of the world’s oldest living cultures in an engaging and respectful way. 

By incorporating First Nations perspectives into everyday learning, we empower children to grow with a strong sense of cultural understanding and respect for Australia’s traditional custodians, while assisting the children to understand the importance of cultural heritage history and. We encourage all family’s involvement in our sustainability journey and support their contributions whether in the form of recycled items, opportunities or collaborations with community groups. 

Our Commitment to Reconciliation 

At SHBELC  we believe every child deserves to grow and thrive in a world that values respect, inclusivity, and cultural connection. That’s why we’re proud to be further training our staff in cultural awareness and reconciliation - a journey grounded in reflection, understanding, and meaningful action. 

We are currently designing a Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP), to be endorsed by Reconciliation Australia. This plan will outline the thoughtful steps we’re taking to support Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, histories and cultures - within our centres, our curriculum, and our workplace and wider community. 

What does this mean for families? 

It means that when your child attends SHBELC, they will learn and grow in an environment that celebrates and respects Australia’s First Nations peoples. From Acknowledgements of Country to meaningful, hands-on learning experiences, our educators gently weave Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander perspectives into each day through play-based exploration. 

It also means we’re creating warm, inclusive environments where families feel welcome and supported, and where children are encouraged to be curious, respectful and connected to the world around them. 

What’s included in our RAP? 

Our Reflect RAP is just the beginning. Our intention is that the RAP will : 

  • Provide cultural responsiveness training for all educators and staff 

  • Partner with First Nations educators, artists and organisations -  

  • Celebrate important cultural events like National Reconciliation Week and NAIDOC Week 

  • Create more opportunities for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander employment  

  • Foster inclusive practices across the Centre 

These actions are embedded in our curriculum giving children the chance to engage with culture, Country, and community in a developmentally appropriate and respectful way. 

Once completed you will be able to download SHBELC’s Reconciliation Action Plan. Watch this space!