Relationships are crucial to strengthening collaboration across all educational settings and with Aboriginal learners, students, families, and communities. Strong, authentic Relationships will assist in working towards common goals in Aboriginal education matters and will promote further celebration of the success of students, learners and communities.

Relationships take time to develop and effort to maintain, which in turn fosters an environment of trust where all parties can listen, learn, and grow together. When it comes to evaluation and planning, Relationships need to be established and built on sharing. Sharing who we are we, what we do and where we are from. It starts with listening and sharing.

What are some practical examples I can use to embed this Guiding Principle?

Practical application of this Framework will look and feel different across the many contexts and environments of the NSW public education space. Everyone is encouraged to embrace the Framework and determine what the Guiding Principles mean for the work we do.

We are a large organisation and irrespective of our role, the development of Relationships applies to us all.

1. Take the first step. Aboriginal education is everyone’s business and should be reflected in your day-to-day work. It is your responsibility to actively engage with Aboriginal learners students, families, communities, staff and organisations.
2. Be genuine in your approach. The foundations of strong Relationships include taking the time to Yarn, listen and learn, valuing what is said. It is important to also share your experiences. Relationships take time to build and require mutual commitment and respect.

Hear about the importance of Relationships

Mali Kelly, School Learning Support Officer, Briar Road Public School shares how she builds Relationships as part of her practice.

Jo Graham, Principal, Kurnell Public School, explains what the Framework means to her and how building Relationships supports Aboriginal students and their families.

Want to know more? Share your feedback through the QR code so the Aboriginal Outcomes and Partnerships Directorate Team can ensure that we are building the resources you need to be culturally responsive in evaluation and school planning.

If you would like a presentation for your Directorate, please contact aopcorrespondence@det.nsw.edu.au