Connecting learning
Many schools achieve long-term, sustainable change by consulting broadly with the community in relation to how learning at home and learning at school are connected. Changes to curriculum offer an opportunity for schools to discuss learning progressions and cultural relevance with parents and carers.
- Use the Family School Partnerships Framework School Assessment Tool – Reflection Matrix to plan for improved engagement.
- Analyse the current school context and learning background of parents.
- Explain ethical responsibilities to students and parents.
- Integrate and act on opportunities presented by programs such as Positive Behaviour for Learning.
- Strategically utilise available funding.
- Review the language background of families for the introduction of bilingual programs.
‘An important factor in the success of the initiative was the identification of the imperative for change in curriculum offerings and the communication of this to the wider community.’
Principal, Toormina High School
‘It is imperative that the students see how much their parents value what the school does ... how parents play an active role in shaping our school and the importance of education at school and at home.’
Principal, Briar Road Public School
‘The Aboriginal education program we see as a moral obligation ... that we must teach the students about the first Australians culture, language, and the connection to country that people have here in Tathra, particularly on this site.’
Principal, Tathra Public School
The entry level achievement of Year 7 students provided an opportunity to change teaching programs, assessment practices and engagement strategies with parents and external organisations at Rooty Hill High School.
Bright ideas
Gumbaynggirr cultural and bush tucker track
At Scotts Head Public School the Gumbaynggirr cultural and bush tucker track is an initiative designed to build stronger links with local Gumbaynggirr Elders and community members through a greater understanding of local indigenous culture, historical perspectives and knowledge systems within the school and the wider community. The Gumbaynggirr cultural and bush tucker track is a learning resource that promotes bio-diverse values through the 'accessible' concept of bush foods and medicinal plants. This is a highly successful teaching engagement strategy which continues to grow every day.