03/07/2015 Advice for teachers, HKA News logo_0

 From 5 to 12 July this year, NAIDOC celebrations will be held around Australia to celebrate the history, culture and achievements of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. Healthy Kids hope to see primary and high schools embrace this celebratory spirit using one or more of the ideas below (thanks to the NAIDOC website).

  • Display the National NAIDOC poster or other Indigenous posters around your classroom or workplace.
  • Start your own hall of fame featuring Indigenous role models.
  • Listen to Indigenous musicians or watch a movie about Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander history.
  • Make your own Indigenous trivia quiz.
  • Study a famous Indigenous Australian.
  • Research the traditional Indigenous owners of your area.
  • Study Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander arts and crafts.
  • Create your own Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander art.
  • Run an art competition for your school or community.
  • Research Indigenous history online or visit you library to find books about Aboriginal and Torres Strait peoples.
  • Visit local Indigenous sites of significance or interest.
  • Learn the meanings of local or national Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander place names and words.
  • Invite local Indigenous Elders to speak or give a Welcome to Country at your school or workplace.
  • Invite an Indigenous sportsperson or artist to visit you.
  • Invite Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander dancers to perform.
  • Host a community BBQ or luncheon (making sure it’s as healthy as possible!).
  • Hold a flag raising ceremony.
  • Organise a smoking ceremony.

If you’d like more inspiration, there is a fantastic Pinterest account dedicated to NAIDOC Week (catering more towards teachers and classroom activities). You can also find a list of events in your local area here.