Aboriginal Education Workers (AEWs) play a vital role in supporting Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students, their families, school staff, and the wider community. At St Brigid’s, the AEW acts as a cultural liaison, fostering a safe and inclusive environment by sharing local Aboriginal history, language, and culture.

Working in partnership with teachers, the Wellbeing Team, and Learning Support Team, the AEW helps embed Aboriginal perspectives into the curriculum and supports staff with cultural protocols and significant events. They also collaborate with external agencies to provide students with academic support and pathways for future opportunities.

The AEW’s core purpose is to strengthen connections between Aboriginal students, their families, the school, and the local community—enhancing student wellbeing, engagement, and educational outcomes.

Students at St Brigid’s participate in a variety of cultural and educational experiences supported by the AEW, recently our students have participated in:

• Aboriginal Numeracy Day hosted by the Wollotuka Institute at Newcastle University, held at McDonald Jones Stadium. This event brings together students from across NSW to celebrate culture, numeracy, and sport.
• Reconciliation Week activities, where students engage in traditional games, Aboriginal painting, and drawing using Aboriginal symbols.
• The Indigenous Tennis Carnival in Broadmeadow, attended by Year 7 and 8 students. The day includes cultural activities such as decorating paper boomerangs, team-building challenges, and tennis coaching sessions.

On-site at St Brigid’s, the AEW also facilitates:

• Cultural activities and sessions using Aboriginal symbols and storytelling.
• Yarning circles to promote connection, reflection, and respectful dialogue.
• Support with NAIDOC Week celebrations, including assemblies, performances, and classroom activities.
• Mentoring and wellbeing check-ins with Aboriginal students to support their academic and personal development.
• Guidance for staff on cultural protocols and incorporating Aboriginal perspectives into teaching and learning.

These experiences help students build cultural pride, strengthen community connections, and develop skills that support their academic and personal growth.

Sharon Bailey

Aboriginal Education Worker (AEW)