In addition to learning Bahasa Indonesia, Year 8 are learning about their culture and way of life. Last week we looked at Sekolah (school) for high school students in Indonesia, identifying differences to their routine and a day in their life. We loved broadening our perspective and exploring life in a different culture, it is really wonderful to see what the school day is like for teenagers around the world. 

Our report for the beginning of 2022 actually starts with the end of 2021. As part of the Staff Development Days at the end of Term 4, all school staff attended a Spirituality Day with a focus on Aboriginal culture. Aspects of Cultural Competency were addressed during the day. Staff participated in various workshops including arts activities and a bush tucker walk. It was a wonderful opportunity to reflect on the rich and enduring cultural history of our area and our nation.

We have welcomed a new cohort of Year 7 students and they are settling into high school very well. Many have joined our cultural programs, which have been able to proceed as usual this term. Many students are involved in Girls and Boys Aboriginal Dance and Didgeridoo. The didg program has over 60 boys registered this year.

Our dancers have been able to perform at the recent Open Night for Year 7 2023. A smoking ceremony, welcome dance and other dances gave visitors an insight into the approach St John’s has in regard to incorporating culture into our day. Thank you to all of our student helpers on the night. Our students have also been involved in assembly presentations to mark the National Apology Day and Close the Gap Day 2022. 

This year there are five Aboriginal students completing a school based traineeship.This program runs concurrently with the school program and allows students to complete practical work experience while they complete their studies. In another careers initiative, a representative from the Royal Australian Navy has visited to provide advice and mentoring for students who are interested in a Navy career. This is an ongoing program.

Another program run by the Illawarra Aboriginal Corporation is assisting students to, among other things, gain their driving licence. The independence given by a drivers licence will open up far more career and education opportunities for students.

Three Year 10 students are involved in the local Youth Advisory Committee. This program, run by the Shoalhaven City Council, allows students to have a voice on local matters which affect them. It also gives the students an insight into the running of council and community matters.

During the meeting on Wednesday 16 May, students Sophie Weller, Georgia Coleman and Yasmin Lingard attended the Shoalhaven City Council Youth Advisory Committee Meeting where discussions were held on the effect of the lockdowns on youth, Youth Week 2022 and the NSW Youth Council Conference.

Our Homework Centre has been very well attended this year. This is open to all students, with support provided by teachers and Gooroon staff for any tasks that students choose to work on. This is in Gooroon/H1 from 3 - 4.30pm every Wednesday. Afternoon tea is provided.

As this report shows, there are many activities up and running in 2022. There are also many more to come. We look forward to continuing our support of students and staff. Feel free to contact Gooroon if you have any questions.