Kindy Flies Flags of Reconciliation

As part of the Reconciliation Action Plan in place at Hillcrest Christian College Kindy, the Early Learning Centre had a special visit from The Hon Karen Andrews MP on Wednesday, 25 July, who presented the students and teachers with the Australian, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander flags. The Centre were honoured and excited to receive these important flags and have displayed the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander flags to show respect for, and recognition of, the First Australians. Flying these flags also promotes a sense of community partnership and is a public commitment toward reconciliation.

Hillcrest’s Kindy have a strong and positive vision for Australia’s future generations, and as Early Childhood Educators they acknowledge the vital role they must play in supporting and encouraging this collaborative journey towards a reconciled Australia. This begins with teaching children the importance of equality for all Australians and equity for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, which is crucial in working towards a brighter future for all Australians. Our Kindy believes that a reconciled Australia acknowledges and respects Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples as the Traditional Owners of Australia. They strive to do this every day through interactions with families, children, educators and the wider community. The Kindy holistically embeds Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander perspectives into the practices and curriculum, to respect the histories and continued traditions of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and cultures.

Hillcrest Christian College’s Kindy aims to bring awareness and build stronger relationships with the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander community within the Centre and beyond. Their goals are to educate and assist in promoting inclusive and safe practices and to ensure these practices are embedded into all environments. They aim to broaden the lines of communication with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Elders and community members, to create significant partnerships. In doing so, they hope to promote meaningful practices and inclusion of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander community into the Hillcrest Kindy.

By respectfully gaining knowledge, understanding and partnerships with the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander community, the Kindy will receive valuable lessons on traditions and histories, and an appreciation for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and their cultures. Our team at Hillcrest Christian College Kindy are proud to be part of the ongoing commitment to ensuring equality and equity for all Australians.