A small group of Years 9 and 10 students recently engaged in a rich and rewarding program that celebrated and deepened their understanding of First Nations culture. Students Aleeza, Nenuka and Ruby reflected upon this immersive experience and shared their insights with everyone gathered at the recent Reconciliation Week Assembly.
Across the week, students took part in a variety of hands-on activities designed to connect them with Indigenous knowledge and innovation. The program was an opportunity not only to learn, but to create, share and reflect on the significance of First Nations heritage in Australia.
“We explored different aspects of First Nations culture through a range of hands-on activities,” shared Aleeza, a Year 9 student. “These included writing storybooks for Junior School students and cooking with native Australian ingredients.”
One of the first topics students explored was Budj Bim, a World Heritage-listed site in Victoria that showcases one of the oldest known aquaculture systems in the world.
“It was amazing to learn about how complex and sustainable these systems were,” said Year 9 student, Nenuka. “The aquaculture system used by the Gunditjmara people to trap and farm eels using stone channels and weirs showed us the ingenuity and deep environmental knowledge of First Nations communities.”
A key part of the week involved creating storybooks for Year 2 students, helping to pass on important innovations in accessible ways. Students researched topics such as bush medicine, firestick farming and songlines, before crafting and illustrating books designed for educating younger readers.
“We each researched different First Nations innovations and used what we learned to create simple and engaging storybooks,” explained Year 10 student, Ruby. “Some of us illustrated by hand, and others used digital tools. We then read the books to the Year 2 students, who are learning about First Nations culture in their own classes.”
Art also featured prominently, with students creating large-scale paintings inspired by memories from the ‘Crews Not Passengers’ camp where they explored some natural waterways in Victoria, particularly the natural beauty of the Australian coastline.
“Ms Clark from the Junior School guided us through the process and introduced us to a variety of painting techniques and materials,” said Aleeza. “We really enjoyed developing our skills and bringing those memories to life through art.”
Their artwork will extend the projects being conducted in the ‘Crews Not Passengers’ Knoxpedition. Our students embraced this opportunity with curiosity and enthusiasm, and we invite everyone to take a look at their impressive artworks now on display at school:
The program concluded with a culinary exploration of native Australian ingredients, blending traditional knowledge with modern tastes.
“One of the highlights was baking brownies using wattle seed,” said Ruby. “It has a rich, dark coffee-chocolate aroma. We also explored other native flavours like lemon myrtle, strawberry gum, and even cricket powder.”
The students extended their thanks to the staff who made the program possible. “We really appreciated the time and effort you put into making the week meaningful, creative, and fun,” said Ruby. “A big thank you to Ms Gooch, Ms Clark, Ms Crawford and Ms Fox for all your support.”
