PRINCIPALS and student leaders from 24 Camden Haven and Hastings Valley public schools have committed to improving educational outcomes for Aboriginal children, families and communities.
Representatives of the Hastings Valley Community of Schools (HVCA) and the Aboriginal Education and Consultative Group (AECG) signed a historic Memorandum of Understanding with the NSW Department of Education during a formal ceremony at Guulabaa – Place of Koala.
It marked a major milestone in Aboriginal Education across the region; celebrating strong, collaborative partnerships.
The MOU is grounded in the broader “Walking Together, Working Together Partnership Agreement” and reinforces the importance of mutual respect, cultural understanding, and genuine collaboration.
It builds on a long-standing relationship between regional schools, providing a framework for culturally safe, inclusive, and empowering learning environments.
The signing event on Wednesday 30 July began with a Smoking Ceremony, followed by a Welcome to Country by Uncle Bill, and a moving cultural performance by the Yapun Yapun dancers from Wauchope High School.
Guests heard from Brice Hayward, President of the Hastings AECG, who reflected on the deeper significance of the event.
“This occasion signifies everyone coming together and schools having a collective understanding that Aboriginal education is a big part of our schooling system.”
Members of the MOU Committee also spoke to the purpose and development of the agreement.
Directors of Educational Leadership, Andrew Kuchling (Hastings) and Emma Jeffery (Macleay Valley), shared their insights into the real-world impact of the partnership.
Mr Kuchling highlighted the positive outcomes already being seen in schools across the region.
“It has led to some outstanding results for our students in NAPLAN, in knowing their culture, in having strong relationships with people at school,” he said.
Emma Jeffery added that the MOU represents more than a document, it’s a commitment to lasting and meaningful change.
“It is the steps that we take together to bring about true equity and excellence for all of our students, and certainly our Aboriginal students,” she said.
Principals Brett Thurgate and Deb Gilbert also shared how partnerships with the AECG are helping to shape more culturally responsive and supportive learning environments.
Representing Hastings Secondary College, Jikyha Vitnell played the didgeridoo, adding depth and cultural significance to the formal signing.
By Sue STEPHENSON
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