Supporting reconciliation at Uralla Central School

This case study highlights Uralla Central School’s approach to reconciliation and its Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP). It explores how Uralla Central School utilised Reconciliation Australia's Narragunnawali Platform to develop its RAP, fostering pride and understanding of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander histories, cultures and contributions for students, staff and the wider school community.

School context

Operating since 1862 on the lands of the Anaiwan people, Uralla Central School has 291 Kindergarten to Year 12 students, with 35% identifying as Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander. Known for its strong community ties, the school places cultural inclusivity and Aboriginal education at its core, jointly led by the Head of Cultural Education, Jo Sherrin, and the Aboriginal Education Officer, Dixie Skuthorpe. Staff include 25 full-time teachers, Student Support Officers (SSO), School Administrative Officers (SAO), and an Aboriginal Education Officer (AEO).

Uralla Central School played a key role in re-establishing the Uralla Aboriginal Education Consultative Group (AECG) in collaboration with local Elders and families. The school continues to work closely with the AECG to drive meaningful change and improve outcomes for Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander students.

Reconciliation at Uralla Central School: An overview

Prior to developing the RAP, reconciliation efforts at Uralla were informal and largely supported by the AEO and other interested staff. In 2023, the school created a dedicated Head of Cultural Education executive role, who led the creation of a formal K-12 Aboriginal Education Team within the school. This team meets on a weekly basis to plan, support, and celebrate Country, culture, and Indigenous and multicultural teaching and learning. Prioritising the RAP has led to significant progress, creating a culturally responsive and inclusive environment where students feel empowered to share and celebrate their identities.

Reconnecting with community

The RAP journey began with a focus on reconnecting with the local community. The school’s AEO organised professional development sessions for all staff, facilitating connections with Elders and strengthening cultural awareness. This groundwork prepared the staff for meaningful engagement with the RAP process, guided by the Narragunnawali RAP Framework. As Jo Sherrin notes, “Dedicated time and shared responsibility on RAP deliverables were critical.”

Engaging the whole school

By the end of 2023, Uralla Central had established clear RAP targets, with the entire staff, including senior leaders actively engaged in achieving these goals. Information about the RAP and its goals were included in the school’s newsletters to ensure the whole community could relate to, and engage with, the plan in an informed and meaningful way. Flying the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander flags became even more meaningful through educating the school about their design, symbolism, and cultural significance. The RAP also emphasised ongoing relationships with Elders, involving them throughout the year for events like smoking ceremonies and morning teas. "Building cultural safety has been the greatest reward," shared a teacher. "Students are excited about expressing their identity, even requesting to do the Acknowledgement of Country at assemblies."

Staff development

Weekly staff sessions focused on Aboriginal education, providing strategic planning time and promoting teamwork. Increased understanding of Country has inspired staff to incorporate these teachings across history, geography, and other subjects. “Embedding our RAP from kindergarten to our seniors and families is what we’re striving for,” says Deputy Principal Dan Williams, “but having students involved in that meaning is our goal.”

Fostering a community of practice

Uralla Central aims to expand its reconciliation efforts through collaboration with local preschools and schools across the Uralla Shire. “It will be more powerful if we work together,” says Dan, highlighting support from the local mayor and newspaper to amplify the school’s reconciliation journey throughout the community.

Uralla Central School's commitment to its RAP fosters a thriving, inclusive environment, helping students and staff alike take pride in Aboriginal culture and heritage.

Want to know more?

Visit Reconciliation Australia's Narragunnawali Platform and join the conversation on the Viva Engage ‘Reconciliation Action Plan Group’. You can also subscribe to the RAP newsletter.