Aboriginal Resident

Having an Aboriginal Resident at Mascot Public School is about ensuring Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander voices, cultures, histories and perspectives are visible, valued and respected throughout our school.

At Mascot Public School, we are proud to work alongside Imogen Grant, our Aboriginal Resident, to strengthen Aboriginal education, cultural connection and community engagement across our school. Imogen works closely with our students, families and staff to support meaningful opportunities for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students to connect with their culture, identity and community.

Working alongside Imogen helps us to ensure that Aboriginal perspectives are incorporated into school life in meaningful, respectful and authentic ways. Her knowledge, experience and connections provide valuable guidance as we continue to strengthen our approach to Aboriginal education at Mascot Public School.

We work together with students, families and our local community to make Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures, histories and perspectives a meaningful part of everyday school life.

This can happen through:

• Celebrating Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures and achievements
• Learning about Aboriginal histories, cultures and perspectives in the classroom
• Taking part in cultural events, activities and community celebrations
• Providing opportunities for students to develop leadership skills and have their voices heard
• Sharing Aboriginal artwork, stories, symbols and displays around our school
• Creating cultural gardens and special learning spaces
• Welcoming Aboriginal community members, Elders and guest speakers into our school
• Inviting families to share their knowledge, stories, cultures and experiences
• Recognising and celebrating important Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander dates and events
• Supporting students to learn about, connect with and celebrate their own culture and identity

Imogen also works alongside our students to create opportunities for yarning, connection, cultural learning and student voice. These relationships help students feel comfortable sharing their experiences, ideas and aspirations and provide opportunities for their culture to be celebrated within the school environment.

We also encourage all students at Mascot Public School to learn about Aboriginal histories, cultures and experiences as an important part of their broader education. This supports students to develop a deeper understanding and respect for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, cultures and perspectives.

For our Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students, seeing their culture, identity and community represented positively within their school can strengthen their sense of belonging, connection and pride.

Through our work with Imogen Grant, we are continuing to build a school environment where Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students and families feel welcomed, connected, represented and valued, and where every student has opportunities to learn about and respect Aboriginal culture and history.