Our Reconciliation Strategy
In 2024, the College released its second Reconciliation Strategy, outlining the College’s commitment and planned contribution to reconciliation over the next three years, building on the foundation laid by the College’s initial Reconciliation Strategy, established in 2021. This document was developed by the College’s Reconciliation Strategy Team. This team consists of representatives from teaching staff, from professional and operational staff, and from parents and carers, all with a passion in this area. Our desire is that through the Reconciliation Strategy priorities, the College will embed practices that further support members of the College community who identify as Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander, engage meaningfully and respectfully with members of the local Aboriginal community, and make contributions to the national journey towards reconciliation.
The Dharug Culture and Language Program is a key component of the Strategy, which has been developed in partnership with members of the Dharug community. In 2024, this program evolved from being delivered exclusively in Year 8 to being embedded throughout Years 7 to 12.
Through the program, students engage in learning that progresses their knowledge of the culture, history and language of the Dharug people, develops their respect for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, culture and histories more widely, and encourages them to grow in their empathy skills as they hear stories and accounts of life for the Dharug people post contact.
To represent these initiatives and others that may stem from the Reconciliation Strategy in the future, the College commissioned an artwork. This work was completed by renowned Dharug artist, Leanne Watson. The artwork tells a story of the Dharug people, the College, and Marella - the mission that was established on the grounds where Bernie Mullane Sporting Complex is now situated, a short drive from the College. The waratahs are symbolic of healing as the College partners with the Dharug community on a journey of learning. The College looks forward to using the artwork to authentically represent our commitment to partnering with the Dharug community.
