OUR RECONCILIATION JOURNEY

OUR RECONCILIATION

JOURNEY

In Australia, education has a rich and vast history – Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures have been learning and sharing knowledge on this continent for at least 65,000 years. As an educational institution, TAFE SA is inspired by this tradition.

We’re also aware of the pain that colonisation and dispossession have caused, and the impact that this continues to have on communities. Reconciliation is, therefore, an important and ongoing process centred on strengthening the relationship between First Nations and non-indigenous Australians. At TAFE SA, we are on a continuous journey to cultivate trust, respect, understanding, and inclusiveness within the organisation.

We seek to implement necessary programs and measures to ensure Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students and staff feel culturally safe and empowered. In May 2020, coinciding with National Reconciliation Week, we were proud to launch our first conditionally-approved Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP). This plan is a framework for cultural change that affirms our commitment to reconciliation by building greater awareness and providing increased opportunities for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander staff and students. If you identify as an Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander student, you’ll have access to TAFE SA’s Aboriginal Access Centre throughout your study. The Aboriginal Access Centre delivers a variety of programs in metropolitan, regional, and remote areas, and helps with enrolments into TAFE SA courses. The Centre also offers mentoring by Training Support Officers, who will act as a link between you and your lecturers, and assist you in developing your individualised learning plan.

Since the early 1980s, TAFE SA has had a presence in the Anangu Pitjantjatjara Yankunytjatjara (APY) Lands, providing key support and training services for local communities. Currently, we have six learning sites in the APY Lands that offer work readiness and work skills. We’re immensely proud to work with local stakeholders and community members to deliver tailored training solutions.

Whether you’re interested in vocational education and training, a university pathway, or a short course, you will be supported and guided throughout your studies at TAFE SA. We are committed to helping each student achieve their educational and career goals.