Local Aboriginal elders in Narrabri are hailing the success of their cultural awareness program as a tool to keep kids of an indigenous background in school.
The program, which runs each Friday during the school term, sees indigenous students from Narrabri High School from years 8 to 12 learn about the traditional values of the local Aboriginal culture.
This has then seen dramatic effects in school, with an improved attendance record, as well as building on individual self-esteem, according to Narrabri High School’s Aboriginal Education Officer Jackie Jones.
“I’m really impressed with the students who have been a part of this program during the school year.
Having the elders come and talk to the kids gives them a good understanding of their background and place in the community”, she said.
Jackie said that it was important for all indigenous children to have the best opportunity in life and that started with education.
“I can’t stress enough the importance of having an education,” she said.
“Learning is essential to achieving your goals in life.
“The kids here are doing this thanks to the support of the community elders.”
Jackie said that the program will continue in 2015, when the school resumes at the start of next month.