Aboriginal Education

Mark Oliphant College (MOC) Aboriginal Education Team is committed to fostering inclusive and culturally responsive education practices. The College’s Aboriginal Education principles align with the South Australian Department for Education’s goal to ensure improved educational outcomes for Aboriginal students. The following are key aspects of Aboriginal Education principles at MOC:

Cultural Responsiveness and Inclusion:
The Aboriginal Education Team at MOC is pursuing the goal that Aboriginal culture, histories, and perspectives are embedded in the curriculum and daily practices, fostering a sense of belonging and respect for cultural identity. This includes things such as exposure to Kaurna language and recognition of the land as Kaurna Country.

Empowering Aboriginal Student Achievement:
The college establishes high expectations for all Aboriginal students, providing targeted support and personalised learning outcomes through a dedicated and committed Aboriginal Education Team to ensure they succeed both academically and socially.

Community and Family Engagement:
Strong partnerships with families, local Aboriginal communities, and Aboriginal Controlled Community Organisations are integral to the Aboriginal Education Teams approach. Events such as ‘Deadly Night’ bring the local community together. The college aims to value and respect the voices of families and Elders in decision-making processes related to Aboriginal Education.

Cultural Competency of Staff:
The Aboriginal Education Team are competent in cultural awareness to ensure they are sensitive to and knowledgeable about Aboriginal cultures, allowing them to create a culturally safe and supportive learning environment.

Closing the Gap Initiatives:
The Aboriginal Education Team deliver South Australian Aboriginal Secondary Training Academy (SAASTA) Programs and cultural groups which actively contributes to closing the education achievement gap for Aboriginal students through ongoing monitoring of outcomes, tailored support programs, and collaboration with relevant stakeholders.

Recognising and Celebrating Aboriginal Identity:
The college integrates opportunities to celebrate Aboriginal culture through events such as NAIDOC Week, Reconciliation Week to build awareness and mutual respect within the school community.

These principles collectively aim to support the holistic development of Aboriginal students while strengthening the connection between education and their cultural heritage. At MOC, the focus is to create a thriving, inclusive environment where every Aboriginal learner feels valued and empowered.