Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples are significant cultures within our Australian community. They have helped to shape and form who we are as the nation of Australia and how we educate our young generations. When educating students who have a First Nations’ background, it is important to consider the Australian Professional Standards for Teachers (APST’s). The APST’s provide teachers with a guide of how they can cater for their students and adapt lessons to suit students who may require further support. In the case of First Nations’ students, ensure that they are retaining the content taught but also providing opportunities for personal and professional development (ACARA, 2024). This could include elements of inclusion of their tribe’s dialect within group work and classroom activities to allow all students to diversify their knowledge surrounding the culture.
The two key sub standards from the APST’s is focus area 1.4 and 2.4 (AITSL, 2017). Focus Area 1.4 explores how students can demonstrate a deeper understanding of the linguistics conversed by students with an Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander background. This acknowledges the diversity of languages utilised between each tribe. Focus Area 2.4 explores how students must learn to understand and respect the diverse cultural background of their peers and how this can differ to that of their own background.
References:
Australian Curriculum, Assessment and Reporting Authority (ACARA). (2024). HASS F-6 – Year 4.
Muswellbrook Shire Council. (2022). Indigenous Australians – First Nations People.
Australian Institute for Teaching and School Leadership (AITSL). (2017). Australian Professional Standards for Teachers.
