RECONCILIATION WEEK 2023

In the spirit of Reconciliation Week 2023, the students at Peter Moyes Anglican Community School have enjoyed hands-on experiences that combine learning about First Nations culture with practical skills.

Reconciliation activities have been incorporated into the Stephanie Alexander Kitchen Garden program for Year 2 students. They have been growing herbs in the school vegetable garden and using them to make traditional damper.

Through the process of planting, nurturing, harvesting and using herbs, students are taught about the importance of sustainable food practices while creating a connection to the land and an appreciation for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander agricultural practices.

In a hands-on cooking session, students mixed the dough, added the herbs, and cooked their damper over the open fire in a Yarning Circle.

During the cooking process, teachers and students discussed the historical significance of damper in First Nations culture, and how it was traditionally prepared and shared. Finally, everyone enjoyed the fruits of their labour by tasting their delicious damper!

“This shared experience fosters a sense of appreciation for the culture of our First Nations peoples among our students.”

Kate Gair, Year 2 Team Leader and PMACS Reconciliation Ambassador

“We look for practical and engaging ways to promote cultural appreciation and reconciliation in our School Community. Sitting around the fire pit in our Yarning Circle is a perfect way to share stories about our history and culture.

“Our students have a true appreciation and respect for the land we live and learn on, and how we can all work together for reconciliation.”

Other activities during Reconciliation Week have included weaving, leaf painting, symbol drawing and music. The students have loved learning these new skills and have gained a deeper appreciation for our First Nations people and culture.