𝑅𝑒𝒸𝑜𝓃𝒸𝒾𝓁𝒾𝒶𝓉𝒾𝑜𝓃 𝒲𝑒𝑒𝓀 𝒶𝓉 𝒫𝓇𝑒𝓈𝒸𝒽𝑜𝑜𝓁: 𝐻𝑜𝓃𝑜𝓊𝓇𝒾𝓃𝑔 𝒞𝓊𝓁𝓉𝓊𝓇𝑒 𝒶𝓃𝒹 𝒞𝑜𝓊𝓃𝓉𝓇𝓎

During Reconciliation Week, our preschool embraced the spirit of learning and respect by engaging children in meaningful experiences that celebrated and recognised First Nations culture. During the weeks leading up the children where invited in the creation of a Sea of Hands—a powerful symbol of support for reconciliation—and the reading of culturally significant books, including Somebody’s Land by Adam Goodes and Ellie Laing. These stories helped children explore the true history of Australia and develop an understanding of connection to Country.

On both Monday and Thursday, the children took part in a special 'Tree Walk' guided by Aunty Michelle, a respected Elder. They visited a local gum tree just behind the preschool—home to Kawal, the eagle and guardian of Wonnarua Country, and his mate. Around the base of the tree, the children completed their Acknowledgment of Country and shared morning tea together before exploring the surrounding bushland. Their adventure led to exciting discoveries of local insects such as stink bugs, wood lice, spiders, and even a magical overhead visit from Kawal himself.

Back at preschool, Aunty Michelle shared the Dreaming story of Baiame, the sky god who shaped the Wonnarua land. She told how Baiame created Kawal, the eagle, to remain and protect the land and its people after he returned to the sky.

This week of learning was a rich and respectful celebration of First Nations culture, deepening the children’s connection to Country and community.