UWS ATSI Education brochure 2015

ABORIGINAL AND TORRES STRAIT ISLANDER EDUCATION 2015 UWS ABORIGINAL AND TORRES STRAIT ISLANDER EDUCATION 2015 • 1

CONTENTS

Cover Art Aunty Edna Watson, Darug Elder and direct descendant of Yarramundi

Tree of Knowledge Why study at UWS? Badanami Centre for Indigenous Education Indigenous Australian Studies Major Bachelor of Medicine/Bachelor of Surgery Programs that inspire Aboriginal Rural Education Program (AREP) Providing support through Scholarships Inspiring students with unique opportunities

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This painting is called Yarramundi country.

The tortoises are from the long neck lagoon and the fish are from the Deerabin (Nepean River). On the right are the family camps; on the left are the creeks and waterholes. At the bottom, the men are fishing with spears and nets and on the top the women are cooking the fish – it is all on Yarramundi’s Darug country.

As a matter of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultural protocol and out of recognition that its campuses occupy their traditional lands, the University of Western Sydney acknowledges the Darug, Tharawal (also historically referred to as Dharawal), Gandangarra and Wiradjuri peoples and thanks them for their support of its work in their lands (Greater Western Sydney and beyond).

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TREE OF KNOWLEDGE This artwork was painted for the University of Western Sydney in support of the Indigenous Education initiatives.

It provides an Aboriginal perspective of education at the University of Western Sydney and it is about the University, what it does and where it is situated.

These large ancient trees were highly regarded and met many needs of our people. Beneath the large branches was the traditional place for learning and knowledge sharing. The trees were a source of food, fruit, nuts, seeds, clothing, shade, shelter, building materials and even some natural medicines. In the centre of the painting is the Tree of Knowledge which is at the centre of Aboriginal Education.

Set under the cool branches, learning takes place. The telling of stories, learning song and dance occur. This is where we learn about our culture, country, lore

and people as well as make artefacts and or decorate personal items. This is why it is the Tree of Knowledge.

Each of the small circles with trees represents the six University of Western Sydney campuses: Parramatta, Bankstown, Campbelltown, Penrith, Hawkesbury and Nirimba. The trees are surrounded by yellow circles with green dots and represent people associated with learning. Yellow ochre and white along with green dots on red ochre represent the buildings and places of learning. The U shape is a traditional representation of a person and is utilised in the painting to represent students. The square shape between students represents books, computers and electronic learning tools.

Our environmental campuses are represented by the many different

shades of green in the painting and all are connected by motorways and highways which students and staff use to travel to and from the University. The small circles without trees represent the cities and suburbs where students that attend courses at UWS reside. The Parramatta River is on the left hand side and Hawkesbury Nepean is on the right hand side with the Cox’s River to Warragamba. The blue represents the water and the surrounding yellow dots represent the sand banks.

Artist credit: Janice Bruny, Bachelor of Fine Arts (Honours), Honours Class 1 THE FULL PAINTING OF THE TREE OF KNOWLEDGE CAN BE VIEWED AT UWS.EDU.AU/BADANAMIJOURNEY

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WHY STUDY AT UWS? The University of Western Sydney provides a welcoming environment for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students. Our campuses span Greater Western Sydney and offer purpose-built facilities designed to give students the room to expand their learning horizons.

You will learn from researchers whose groundbreaking work is recognised at a national and international level and from lecturers whose passion is teaching and learning. This research, teaching and learning methodology is laying the foundation for students to succeed in their chosen career.

Providing a challenging, supportive environment »» Industry-led curriculum: At UWS, we have ensured that where neccessary our degrees are designed by our industry partners and are accredited by independent bodies. This means that students are taught the skills needed by competent industry professionals. »» Learn from leaders in the field: Our connection with pre-eminent, respected professional networks will set students up for career success. »» Hone professional skills: Developing professional skills through real-life practical experience embedded within the degree will prepare students to step into any working environment.

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»» Rich learning environments: UWS has six campuses located across Greater Western Sydney. Each campus offers its own unique atmosphere and is home to a range of state of the art facilities including a comprehensive library, computer laboratories, and dedicated study space. »» Dynamic research culture: UWS has a distinctive, high-impact research culture committed to enhancing the region’s cultural, economic, environmental and educational development. The University’s reputation for research excellence has placed UWS in the Australian Research Council’s (ARC) funding top 20, underlining the University’s position among the best in the country. UWS Research Centres and Institutes make a real difference to contemporary life, and attract international, national and local interest.

»» Making a difference: Students will get real ‘on-the-ground’ experience, giving you the chance to really learn what your chosen career is all about, and how to make a difference – both to your career and personal life with added bonuses along the way. Initiatives such as the University Careers & Cooperative Education Program will provide you with the opportunity to gain real-world experience. Furthermore, it fosters the ethos of public and community service, helping deliver UWS graduates who are not only the best in their field, but who also are mindful of their public service obligations. »» Dedicated support: Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students will be supported throughout their studies by dedicated support staff located in the Badanami Centre for Indigenous Education.

Areas of Study »» Arts »» Business »» Communication Arts »» Engineering, Information and Communications Technology »» Forensics »» Health Science and Sport Sciences »» Law »» Medicine »» Nursing and Midwifery »» Policing and Criminology »» Psychology »» Sciences »» Social Sciences »» Teaching and Education »» Tourism and Urban Planning

Cultural Celebrations At UWS, we recognise the valuable contribution Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people make to the community. The University holds events throughout the year which celebrate the rich culture and history of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people.

Elder in Residence To assist in supporting students on their journey through university, Badanami’s longest standing Aboriginal staff member is also the Elder in Residence.

This important role continues to be engaged with internal and external communities and organisations, and enhancing the University’s profile and commitment to further education for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people. The Elder in Residence plays a vital role in helping students to continue to be in touch with their culture, in a new and often foreign environment.

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BADANAMI CENTRE FOR INDIGENOUS EDUCATION

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students can look forward to learning in a friendly and supportive environment which promotes independent thinking and diversity.

UWS is committed to providing higher education pathways for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students and contributing to the process of reconciliation. We are an education institution which shares with the Australian community the cultures, languages, history and contemporary experiences of Australia’s first people.

The establishment of the Badanami Centre for Indigenous Education in 2006 demonstrates the University’s commitment to enhancing educational opportunities for all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students.

Badanami was established to provide support and encouragement for every Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander student of the University. Students can drop into Badanami at any time to study or relax.

Badanami’s major role is to: »» provide personal and cultural support to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students »» administer the Indigenous Student Orientation Program »» provide advice on enrolment, programs of study and graduation »» co-ordinate leave of absence, withdrawal, scholarships and cadetships »» act as an advocate on behalf of students »» provide teaching expertise »» administer the Indigenous Tutorial Assistance Scheme (ITAS) »» administer the Away-From-Base Program »» advise UWS academics on Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander content for courses and units to achieve the Indigenous graduate attributes »» conduct research and consultancy.

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Student Support and Services Badanami is committed to providing Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people with access to higher education and encouraging students, staff and community members to utilise the academic and cultural support facilities.

Badanami can provide information about the range of services available on campus from study skills courses, careers advice, counselling, medical assistance and even studying abroad opportunities.

Badanami has offices located on each campus and offers a range of services to assist with guiding Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students through their studies.

Indigenous Student Support Officers Indigenous Student Support Officers (ISSOs) are located at the Badanami Centre on each campus to provide support and advice to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students.

ISSOs are available to: »» support new students through the transitional stage of adjusting to university life and academic culture »» help students develop an appropriate course of action for any problems they may face during their time at university.

The Badanami Centre was established to provide support and encouragement for every student at UWS.

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples Alternative Entry Assessment Program This program is a UWS initiative aimed at increasing Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander participation in undergraduate programs across all areas of study at UWS. As a prospective student you are not required to have completed the HSC or any other qualifications to apply to study at UWS via the Program.

The Program includes a two-day assessment workshop where you will be required to complete literacy and numeracy assessment tasks and participate in an interview to discuss your interest in the course. This allows you to demonstrate that you meet the minimum and essential criteria for the course you have selected. Students who aren’t successful will be referred to UWSCollege or the Badanami Tertiary Entry Program.

When is the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples Alternative Entry Assessment Program?

The two-day assessment workshops and interviews occur three times a year. There will be tests in June, November and January.

Badanami Tertiary Entry Program (BTEP) The Badanami Tertiary Entry Program (BTEP) is aimed at Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander prospective students of all ages wanting to study at UWS. Whether you are currently working, unemployed, studying at TAFE or coming straight from high school, this program will give you an understanding of the academic environment and skills needed to succeed at university.

There are 3 BTEP modules that require 8 hours of study per week over 16 weeks.

However, the rate at which you complete

the program is entirely up to you. Although you will be studying independently, a tutor will be available to help you with any difficulties you may experience.

You will be assessed throughout the program to determine whether you need to complete all modules. Once you have completed the required modules successfully, you will only be requested to attend an interview or undertake a mathematics assessment where required. An offer into UWS via the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples Alternative Entry Assessment Program will then be made.

How can I apply for these programs?

You can apply by completing the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples Alternative Entry Assessment Program Application Form.

The application form can be collected from any Badanami Centre for Indigenous Education or downloaded from the UWS Website at: »» uws.edu.au/badanamiadmissions If you require admission advice or need someone to assist with your application form, please contact UWS on: »» 1300 897 669 or »» study@uws.edu.au The Indigenous Tutorial Assistance Scheme (ITAS) The Indigenous Tutorial Assistance Scheme (ITAS) enables Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students to receive individual or group tuition with qualified tutors in essay writing and study and research skills.

The Indigenous Tutorial Assistance Scheme (ITAS) is a specialised tutorial

program established as part of a Commonwealth government initiative to enhance the educational outcomes for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students. Tutorial assistance is available for eligible students who feel they need additional tutorial support during the course of their studies.

How does it work?

Students may be eligible for up to two hours tuition per week for each unit of study, plus an additional five hours each semester for exam preparation.

The amount and frequency of tuition is based on the educational needs of each individual student.

Tuition sessions can be either individual, or a group made up of students studying the same program. The ITAS Coordinator is available to arrange tutors across a broad range of program areas. Tutorial assistance is tailored to meet the particular needs of the individual student or group of students and there is no cost to the student for this service.

How to apply?

ITAS is administered by the Badanami Centre for Indigenous Education under the guidelines set by the Commonwealth government. Students should contact the Badanami Centre for Indigenous Education to complete an ITAS Application Form and to have their educational requirements assessed by a relevant academic staff member.

Upon approval, a tutor will be assigned to meet the student’s individual needs.

Contact details For more detailed information regarding eligibility and entitlements, please contact the ITAS Coordinator on: »» 1800 032 923 or »» uws.edu.au/badanami

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INDIGENOUS AUSTRALIAN STUDIES MAJOR

What does it mean to live in Indigenous Australia?

The Indigenous Australian Studies Major offers students the opportunity to acquire key cultural competencies that will enable them to understand and work more effectively with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Australians in professions such as the arts, communications, and media industries; education; government and non-government; policy; health; sciences; and community services. The Indigenous Australian Studies Major addresses the cultural, historical, social and economic issues affecting Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders and non-Indigenous Australians and their relationships.

Students will be required to undertake a minimum of eight units (subjects) to achieve their major in Indigenous Australian Studies. Students also have the opportunity to graduate with a minor in Indigenous Australian Studies by completing four units (subjects). For more detailed information about the Indigenous Australian Studies Major, please contact Assoc. Professor Peter Pinnington, Coordinator, Indigenous Australian, Studies Major, or refer to the University website: »» studyias.com.au

There are 11 Units available for study: Level 1 units Contextualising Indigenous Australia This compulsory unit will provide a comprehensive overview of Indigenous Australian cultures, histories and identities. The scope of the unit spans pre-colonisation to the twenty first century across Australia and all relevant fields of study. A cross-section of institutional, community and popular culture contexts will be explored. This body of knowledge will provide a context for various professions and discussions. Students will have the exciting opportunity to hear from a diverse range of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander education specialists and academics to artists, through to performers and community elders. A broad understanding of Indigenous Australia will position students to be advocates for change in contemporary Australia and more specifically their communities.

For more information visit: »» uws.edu.au/studyias Who do you think you are?

This unit is available to all undergraduate students who have open electives.

‘Who do you think you are?’ will provide

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students with practice in the analysis of historical documents, family narratives, autobiography, and political and social issues around a project that will give a context for their own personal story.

Students will start developing skills in oral history work, locating and retrieving archival documents, and compiling their own ‘family tree’. Students will also learn about the idea of identification.

Indigenous Landscapes Indigenous Landscapes aims to explore traditional Indigenous Australian ways of knowing landscapes. The unit incorporates UWS Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander core curriculum content that acknowledges and values pre-colonial Australian history and land-use practices. Content includes traditional land management practices; protected area management; joint management/co-management; Native Title; Land Rights; Indigenous lore versus statute law; sustainable land use; cultural heritage and heritage landscapes. This unit also aims to equip students with cultural competency in order to address issues of dispossession and disadvantage brought about by the historical destruction and disruption of ecological integrity.

Level 2 units Pigments of the Imagination This unit is available to all undergraduate students who have open electives.

Pigments of the Imagination challenges the accepted view that there is such a thing as race based on skin colour and that identity is based on this notion. This unit will encourage students to consider their own definitions of race and explore the view that it is an imaginary concept.

Students will examine the various ways race as an imaginary concept permeates our education practices and cultural representations influencing the construction of racially classified positions for Indigenous Australians as well as all Australians. Students will be encouraged, by critically analysing a range of cultural texts to re-imagine Indigenous and non-Indigenous relations.

From Ochre to Acrylics to New Technologies This unit is available to all undergraduate students who have open electives.

This unit examines the emergence of the Indigenous Australian visual arts movement. It will provide students with a body of knowledge which explores the transition of art-making as it emerged from a historical cultural practice: from ochre to acrylics, to new technologies.

In examining the Indigenous visual arts movement beginning with the Papunya Tula artists, students will gain an insight into the significant contribution urban and regional Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander artists make to the Australian economy and culture. Students will have the exciting opportunity to participate in site visits and engage with a number of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander visual artists.

Revaluing Indigenous Economics Revaluing Indigenous Economics will examine Australia’s Indigenous economy and its dynamics. It will challenge students to reflect on the significant contribution Indigenous Australians have made and continue to make to our growing economy. It will also challenge students to rethink the politics of the welfare economy as it relates to Indigenous Australians. Students will be introduced to a number of enterprise development case studies, such as The Arts, Mining and Land Development, Tourism and the Environment, Sports and Small Business.

Level 3 units Bridging the Gap: Re-engaging Indigenous Australian Learners This unit is available to all undergraduate students who have open electives.

Bridging the Gap: Re-engaging Indigenous Australian Learners will provide students with knowledge and skills to develop teaching strategies that will bridge the education gaps existing for many Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander learners.

Students will gain knowledge of quality teaching frameworks to engage all learners and in particular those of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander heritage. The unit will also increase awareness of the complexities of the cultural inter-relationships between many Indigenous and non-Indigenous learners. The unit focuses on empowering students to effectively teach Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander; Indigenous studies in consultation with Indigenous communities; and assess as well as evaluate resources for use in teaching Indigenous studies.

From Corroborees to Curtain Raisers This unit will provide students with an understanding of the historical framing and cultural re-framing of Indigenous Australians in the live arts. Students will be provided with a theoretical understanding of the politics of representation through examining and reflecting on the transitional shifts that Indigenous artists have made, from cultural performance to theatre productions; traditional storytelling to telling of stories through poetry and writing; ceremonial sounds to music and spoken word performance; documentary film to screen based drama to exploring new technologies and moving image performance. Students will be introduced to a variety of Indigenous artists and their creative works.

The Making of the ‘Aborigines’ This unit is available to all undergraduate students who have open electives. The Making of the Aborigines explores the complex human relations and historical forces that have constructed Indigenous Australian people as Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander. It will involve a critical examination of a range of contemporary

social and political issues impacting on and being engaged by Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people. A more comprehensive understanding of the position of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people in contemporary Australian society will enable students to engage more effectively with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people.

Learning through Indigenous Australian Community Service This unit is available to all undergraduate students who have open electives.

Learning through the Indigenous Australian Community Service will provide students with an exciting opportunity to apply their disciplinary knowledge and skills in an Indigenous Australian cultural context.

Students will negotiate a project with an Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander community and undertake a 50 hour placement over 10 days. Students will gain cross cultural awareness and insights as well as knowledge into Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander community affairs including cultural protocols, decisionmaking and leadership. This experience will provide students with a level of cultural understanding and competency that can lead to improved communication skills and effective partnering with Indigenous people, organisations and communities.

Rethinking Research with Indigenous Australians: Independent Study Project This unit will provide students with an exciting opportunity to undertake an Independent Study Project that will engage them in a strong partnership with Indigenous Australians. Students will gain greater knowledge of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people and develop effective communication skills as well as a level of cultural competency.

The Independent Study Project will expose students to the complexities of the cultural inter-relationships and the politics of undertaking research with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people. It will also provide students with skills and ideas for future research projects that will add to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander knowledge and provide a sound foundation for ethical research.

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BACHELOR OF MEDICINE/ BACHELOR OF SURGERY

The University of Western Sydney first offered a degree in medicine in 2007, following accreditation by the Australian Medical Council.

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students with an interest in completing the Bachelor of Medicine/ Bachelor of Surgery are strongly encouraged to apply.

The School of Medicine at UWS recognises the large Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander population in Greater Western Sydney and the need for more Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander doctors.

As a student your learning will focus on problems and issues that may arise during your medical career.

The Course As a first and second year student, you will be set a problem each week together with lectures, resources, clinical practice and research for that week. From third to fifth year, you will rotate through clinical placements across Greater Western Sydney and rural NSW, such as Lismore and Bathurst ensuring the utmost competence and confidence in your future career.

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander applicants should have successfully completed at least the equivalent of the NSW HSC. It is desirable, but not essential, to sit the UMAT (Undergraduate Medical Admissions Test).

The most important criteria for admission will be assessment of the applicant’s desire to study medicine and their likelihood of succeeding in the course.

These will be determined by the School of Medicine on a case by case basis.

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Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students who wish to apply should follow the steps below when applying: 1. MBBS Registration Form (compulsory step) The Bachelor of Medicine/Bachelor of Surgery MBBS registration form will be available online in July each year and will be located on the School of Medicine webpage. Completed forms must be sent to the School of Medicine. For more information, visit: »» uws.edu.au/medicine

2. U niversities Admissions Centre (UAC) – (compulsory step) It is compulsory for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander applicants to lodge an application with the Universities Admissions Centre NSW and ACT (UAC), although you may wish to.

UAC have strict guidelines and dates for the lodgement of all applications.

Please see the UAC Guide for more information or contact UAC directly by: »» calling (02) 9752 0200 »» or visiting uac.edu.au

4. U MAT – (not compulsory) It is not compulsory for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander applicants to sit the UMAT, although you may if you wish. UMAT has strict guidelines.

Please visit ACER (Australian Council of Education Research) for information and instructions on undertaking UMAT: »» umatweb.acer.edu.au For further information, please contact the Indigenous Program Officer at the School of Medicine on: »» (02) 4620 3637

3. A boriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples Alternative Entry Assessment Program The application process includes the testing of literacy and numeracy skills and an interview. The application form can be obtained by: »» calling 1300 897 669 »» or downloading it from uws.edu.au/badanamiadmissions

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PROGRAMS THAT INSPIRE

ABORIGINAL RURAL EDUCATION PROGRAM (AREP)

This block mode model is designed to afford students the capacity of remaining in their community to fulfill their family, community, career, cultural and social responsibilities.

The Bachelor of Education (Primary) ATSIE and the Bachelor of Community and Social Development are both offered in the block mode model.

To study a block mode program requires students to attend approximately four to six residential schools per year, each lasting between one and two weeks.

Travel, accommodation and meal costs to attend workshops are funded for Abstudy approved students. Students may also be eligible for ITAS tutorial assistance.

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For more detailed admission advice or if you require assistance with the application form, please contact UWS on 1300 897 669 or study@uws.edu.au

Bachelor of Education (Primary) (ATSIE)

Bachelor of Community and Social Development

Diploma of Community and Social Development

The Bachelor of Education (Primary) (ATSIE) is a four-year program. This program gives students the skills and understanding to operate effectively across the full Kindergarten to Year 6 curriculum range. In addition to foundation and curriculum school based subjects, students will extend their literacy and numeracy skills as well as cultural perspectives to form a firm foundation for the curriculum studies subjects, in which they will examine the curriculum content studied at primary school.

The Bachelor of Community and Social Development (Families, Communities, Leadership) is a three year undergraduate degree designed for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students who wish to contribute to building sustainable capacity in their communities. The degree provides the skills and knowledge for work in welfare and advocacy, community leadership, development and community sustainability. The degree recognises the critical importance of these skills in building communities of strength for the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders.

In particular the degree provides three different strands of skills and knowledge: skills in working directly with families in providing welfare advocacy; skills and knowledge in community development; and skills and knowledge in community leadership and sustainability.

The Diploma of Community and Social Development is a one year undergraduate study program available for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students at the Penrith campus. It requires weekly attendance.

The Diploma provides students with initial skills and knowledge for working in community and welfare organisations. The Diploma is designed to support Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students entering university study and provides pathways to further undergraduate study.

The course is offered at the Bankstown campus in an AREP block release mode.

The practical component is undertaken in primary schools in their home communities.

Enrolment is open at the beginning of each year. If students have previous education studies from another university they can apply for advanced standing and be admitted into the appropriate year level of the degree.

Note: Students enrolled in the Bachelor of Community and Social Development can exit early from the degree with the Diploma of Community and Social Development.

The course is offered at Penrith campus in block mode supported by online learning.

Students will have the opportunity to undertake relevant placements in the field.

Students with previous qualifications and/ or relevant work experience are eligible to apply for Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) which can reduce the number of units required to complete the degree.

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PROVIDING SUPPORT THROUGH SCHOLARSHIPS

The University of Western Sydney is not only about obtaining an education. We challenge ourselves to engage students who will get involved and make a difference to the University and wider communities.

UWS has a unique set of scholarships on offer. The scholarships reflect the University’s strong commitment to excellence and opportunity for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students. Our scholarships support students who have diverse interests and skills, and who can and do make an active contribution to their communities.

UWS works closely with businesses, industries and the community to ensure we offer scholarships that meet the needs of our students. Our scholarships provide our students with support and give them the opportunity to establish professional relationships while they study.

Take the time to examine our scholarships and make the most of your opportunities for success. For details on UWS scholarships, including the eligibility requirements and how to apply, refer to: »» uws.edu.au/scholarships or »» call 1800 032 923.

For external scholarship opportunities, refer to indigenousscholarships.com.au

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Students enrolled in an Advanced Degree will automatically join The Academy at UWS. The Academy is an exciting new initiative, established to provide highachieving students with a unique learning experience focusing on their growth as informed and ethical leaders in a rapidly changing world. The program will expose students to new ways of learning and thinking, as well as providing unique opportunities for international, regional and local contribution and engagement. Your academic, personal, social and professional abilities will be developed and supported to foster the skills and confidence to make a real difference, wherever your career and life may take you. Explore the opportunities available at theacademy.uws.edu.au

INSPIRING STUDENTS WITH UNIQUE OPPORTUNITIES

UWS Schools Engagement The University’s Schools Engagement Unit provides primary and high school students with opportunities to improve their academic performance and expand their horizons. There are programs specifically for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students that incorporate university familiarisation, including opportunities to build skills and knowledge academically, culturally and socially. School students are encouraged and supported in defining and pursuing educational and career goals.

The Schools Engagement Strategic Plan focuses on increasing educational aspirations and attainment, and is implemented through annual Action Plans. This is guided by ongoing input from an external reference group comprising senior administrators and school principals from the public, Catholic and independent school systems, and an internal steering group of senior stakeholders from key areas across the University.

Programs aim to promote student engagement in learning, help build capacity in the school sector and improve results in priority areas as defined by the Schools Engagement Reference Group.

Koori Bridges - Koori Education Carnivals The University’s Koori Bridges program aims to enhance the educational aspirations of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students in Years 5 – 8 encouraging them to progress to Year 12 and then on to Higher Education.

This is part of the Australian Government funded Bridges to Higher Education initiative.

Students from Greater Western Sydney schools are invited to participate in Koori Education Carnivals. The one day events familiarise students with university life through an interesting and fun day linked to university courses and Aboriginal cultural knowledge. Guest speakers include Aboriginal elders and prominent members of the Aboriginal community, as well as Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander UWS students. Students take part in a mix of activities enabling diverse exploration.

Pathways to Dreaming Pathways To Dreaming is about making a difference to the way young Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students think about themselves and their futures. From Year 8, students can take part in a variety of activities which help to build their academic, study and interpersonal skills plus increase their awareness of further education and career options. Participants are mentored by UWS students and alumni. The program incorporates Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultural knowledge, including sessions conducted by Aboriginal elders and educators. Each year the students at each school devise and implement a group project to benefit their school or community.

UWS Rural Indigenous Student visits UWS offers Year 9-12 students from rural and remote schools the opportunity to visit UWS for a university experience. Students

stay in on-campus accommodation for four nights, with the day and evening program including activities on three different campuses. Activities include fun and educational workshops, facilities tours, career planning and university information seminars, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultural awareness sessions, social get-togethers, discussions with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander UWS students who act as guides, and a formal dinner with local Aboriginal elders as the guests of honour.

Heartbeat – Engaging Indigenous Students in Health and Medicine Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students from participating Greater Western Sydney schools have the opportunity to take part in a wide range of activities linked to health, medicine and related sciences. Over 500 students participate in on-campus events each year that aim to raise their awareness of health issues, inspire some to pursue careers in health and health sciences, and familiarise them with the university environment. Students join in Year 3 or Year 4. The first cohort reached Year 8 in 2014.

Activities are run by UWS staff and students with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander UWS students acting as guides and role models. Partners in the program include the Tharawal Aboriginal Medical Service, St John’s Ambulance NSW and NSW Health.

Visit the Schools Engagement website: uws.edu.au/community/ indigenous_students

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INTERACT WITH US TO EXPERIENCE UWS LIFE Visit the Future Students Site: myfuture.uws.edu.au Visit the Events Mini-Site: myfuture.uws.edu.au/events Find us on Facebook: uws.edu.au/facebook Connect with us on Twitter: twitter.com/UWSNews Watch our YouTube videos: uws.edu.au/youtube Call the Course Information Centre: 1300 897 669 Email the Course Information Centre: study@uws.edu.au

University of Western Sydney Locked Bag 1797 Penrith NSW 2751 Australia uws.edu.au Course Information Centre 1300 897 669 study@uws.edu.au

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