A campfire is a place where
everyone has a spot to sit,
to listen, share and connect.
It is a place for storytelling,
learning and deep listening.
Throughout 2022, over
3000 people participated
in more than 180 Campfire
Conversations hosted by schools,
Aboriginal Community
Controlled Organisations
and the Department of Education
to discuss
Aboriginal self-determination.
The conceptual framework
synthesises
what we heard
in these conversations
and frames a holistic approach
to improving
learning and wellbeing outcomes
for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander
learners through
greater self-determination.
The student is
at the center of our work.
The coolamon represents
how their self-determination
is strengthened
by the core connection students
bring with them
to their education, family,
community, culture,
identity and their
sense of belonging.
We heard how they must be
nourished and protected
by the system.
The strengthening factors, represented
through the gum leaves
are the influences
that impact a student’s
learning and wellbeing.
We heard how these factors
nourish and protect
the students core connections,
including through professional
learning to support teachers
with deeper understandings
of culture, racism and trauma.
Open communication
that is ongoing,
reciprocal,
and not just in times of crisis.
Teacher practice that is
culturally safe and empowering.
School leadership
that prioritises
and demonstrates accountability
to self-determination.
Access to support services
that are culturally safe
and responsive to community’s
needs.
Strengthening connectedness
between students,
families,
and the wider school community.
A school environment
that is welcoming and inclusive
of Aboriginal and Torres
Strait Islander people.
A curriculum
where all Victorians
can celebrate the rich cultures
and histories
of Aboriginal and Torres
Strait Islander communities,
and strong supported transitions
from the early years
through to further
education and employment.
Six reform directions outline
the priority areas for building
self-determination
across the system.
Formalising
reciprocal partnerships
that foster truth-telling and center
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Aboriginal voice in decision making
will support
the ongoing capacity building
and meaningful
accountability of the Department
in creating a culturally safe
and responsive school system.
The Department will continue
to work with communities
in the co-design
and implementation of reforms
to strengthen
the self-determination
of our students and families
now, and for
the generations yet to come.
Updated