Supporting reconciliation at Uniting Preschool Caves Beach

This case study explores how Uniting Preschool Caves Beach is working towards reconciliation by developing a Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP). It highlights the preschool's existing cultural practices and its strong connections with families and communities, showing how these elements have shaped the creation of its RAP.

Reconciliation is about building stronger relationships between Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and non-Indigenous peoples, focusing on acknowledging and addressing the wrongs of the past.

Uniting Preschool's ongoing reflection on its cultural practices and learning through engagement with Aboriginal communities has been central to its reconciliation journey.

Preschool context

Uniting Preschool Caves Beach, located on Awabakal land, has been part of the community since 1977. The preschool welcomes children from all cultural backgrounds, serving in total 70 families and supporting 39 children aged 3 to 5 each day.

Current cultural practices

Uniting Preschool Caves Beach’s approach to reconciliation includes incorporating elements of Aboriginal culture into their daily routines.

The preschool focuses on nature and sustainability by including aspects of local bushland, beaches and lakes into the preschool environment. Children are also encouraged to share their experiences with the local environment. Michelle Ryan, Nominated Supervisor at Uniting Preschool Caves Beach says, “this is important in appreciating Country, and showing respect for traditional knowledge.”

Indoors, the preschool promotes sustainability by reusing materials and choosing natural play items. Aboriginal culture is visible through flags, books, puzzles and daily Acknowledgements of Country. Events like NAIDOC Week and Reconciliation Week are also celebrated.

“These events foster deep respect and appreciation of the cultures and histories of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples,” says Michelle Ryan.

Learning through engagement

Educators and staff at the preschool have improved their cultural awareness through ongoing reflection, which has helped identify gaps in knowledge and encouraged them to learn more.

Michelle Ryan sought training opportunities to engage with Aboriginal communities, including a local Connecting to Country program run by the Aboriginal Education Consultative Group (AECG). The program helps educators understand the social, cultural and historical issues affecting Aboriginal communities and become more informed about their local area.

“The Connecting to Country program enriched my knowledge of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander culture and local histories,” Michelle explains.

The preschool also partnered with the local Aboriginal organisation, Speaking in Colour, to deepen its learning and ensure that Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander perspectives are embedded meaningfully into its programs.

Through grants from the local council and the NSW Department of Education, the preschool engaged in activities to build connections with the Aboriginal community. One impactful project was the creation of a Possum Skin Cloak through the Possum Resurgence program. This hands-on project involved children and families in celebrating shared stories and culture.

“These programs taught us the importance of connection and community,” Michelle shares.

The Weaving Resurgence Program led to the creation of a woven eagle, symbolising community connection and collaboration. These items have become part of the preschool’s daily practices, including their Acknowledgement of Country.

The importance of family and community in reconciliation

Michelle believes that creating strong relationships enriches children’s educational experiences. By involving families in cultural activities and discussions, the preschool fosters a sense of belonging and understanding. Families are kept informed about local events and their feedback is sought on the preschool’s Acknowledgement of Country and other programs

This community engagement supports children’s learning and strengthens connections to Aboriginal culture and heritage.

Impact of the RAP journey

Although the preschool is just beginning their RAP journey, the foundation laid over the past few years has already had a noticeable impact. Educators and staff have come together to learn, reflect on their practices and integrate cultural knowledge into their programs. This ongoing learning has reinforced their commitment to values such as caring for the land and living sustainably.

The RAP will serve as a roadmap, helping the preschool assess its current practices and set future goals for deeper engagement with Aboriginal perspectives. The preschool plans to use the Narragunnawali site as a resource to help guide its RAP development and stay on track toward meaningful reconciliation.

Advice for other services

Michelle encourages other early childhood services to approach reconciliation with curiosity, reflection and connection to Aboriginal organisations.

“Seek out Aboriginal organisations, resources, and training to learn, and use these to critically reflect on your practices, knowledge and understanding.

“Approach these with respect for the many thousands of years of learning and culture we are privileged to live with around us, and add these into your program with children,” Michelle says.

Looking ahead

Uniting Preschool Caves Beach plan to continue embedding Aboriginal perspectives throughout its programs.

Maintaining ongoing conversations with families and the community will be vital as they prepare a new Acknowledgment of Country and formally start their RAP.

By involving families in this process, the preschool hopes to create a collaborative environment that honours Aboriginal culture and fosters learning for everyone involved.

Want to know more?

Visit Reconciliation Australia's Narragunnawali Platform and join the conversation on the Viva Engage ‘Reconciliation Action Plan Group’. You can also subscribe to the RAP newsletter.