Celebrating Culture and Connection: NAIDOC Week at Oz Education Early Learning
As we embrace the rich tapestry of Australia’s Indigenous heritage, Oz Education Early Learning Centres proudly joined the nation in celebrating NAIDOC Week. From the 7th to the 14th of July, our centres across New South Wales were immersed in activities that promote the history, culture, and achievements of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. Our early learners were provided with valuable NAIDOC week childcare experiences that will carry into the future.
Honouring Tradition and Diversity
NAIDOC Week is a time to reflect on the contributions of First Nations peoples and to recognize their unique cultures. At Oz Education Early Learning, we believe in fostering an inclusive environment where every child can develop a deep respect and understanding for Australia’s First Peoples.
Educational Activities
Throughout NAIDOC Week, our educators have curated a series of engaging activities designed to educate and inspire young minds:
- Storytelling and Dreamtime Tales: Children were captivated by stories passed down through generations, learning about the Dreamtime and the spiritual connection to the land. The children in our Wyong centre loved hearing Aunty Joy Murphy and Lisa Kennedy’s book ‘Welcome to Country’ being read aloud to them.
- Art and Craft Workshops: From painting traditional symbols to creating Indigenous-inspired artworks, children explored the vibrant artistry of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures. Our early learners engaged in lots of Indigenous inspired craft including native prints and cardboard stencil crafts.
- Music and Dance Performances: Through music and dance, children experienced the rhythms and movements that are integral to Indigenous celebrations and ceremonies. The children in our Homebush centre had lots of fun learning to use hollow logs, drums, seed rattles and the didgeridoo to make traditional sound.
Community Engagement
We were also privileged to welcome members of the community to our centres, providing opportunities for children deepen their understanding of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander traditions and the importance of cultural preservation. Our Campsie learners enjoyed a fun day out at their local NAIDOC Week event where they were immersed in Indigenous culture through the smoking ceremony and didgeridoo performances providing valuable NAIDOC week childcare experiences.
Parent and Family Involvement
NAIDOC Week at Oz Education Early Learning is also a time for families to join in the celebration. We encourage parents and caregivers to participate in our activities, share their own stories, and enrich the learning experience for all children.
Commitment to Reconciliation
Beyond NAIDOC Week, Oz Education Early Learning remains committed to embedding Indigenous perspectives into our curriculum and daily practices. We strive to nurture an environment where reconciliation, respect, and recognition are fundamental principles.
Join Us in Celebrating NAIDOC Week
We invite everyone in our Oz Education Early Learning community to join us in celebrating NAIDOC Week. Together, let’s honour the past, celebrate the present, and embrace the future as we learn and grow with respect for Australia’s First Nations peoples.
For more information on our NAIDOC Week celebrations or to enquire about enrolment, please visit our website or contact your nearest Oz Education Early Learning centre.
For more NAIDOC Week stories from other Oz Education centres, please visit our Instagram or Facebook page.
