Reconciliation Week

In a meaningful display of unity and respect, Peter Carnley Anglican Community School held a special Chapel service this week to mark National Reconciliation Week. Students, staff, and community members gathered to reflect on the importance of reconciliation between Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and non Indigenous Australians. 

The ceremony began with an Acknowledgement of Country, followed by student led readings and music performances, where students beautifully sung ‘We are One’ in Noongar and signed in Auslan. The theme for this year, ‘Bridging Now to Next’, served as a powerful message of unity and reformation so we can walk together, side by side. 

Miss Balen addressed the Calista Campus, highlighting the importance of creating welcoming, culturally responsive learning environments.  

Classrooms throughout the week featured activities, storytelling and discussions aimed at embedding First Peoples perspectives into thinking and learning. 

At the Calista Campus, each classroom is represented by a local animal that holds special significance to this place. These animals were beautifully illustrated by our students as part of a meaningful connection to Country. 

In line with our commitment to sustainability and cultural respect, we will now refer to our class identities using their Noongar names. The class names are as follows: 

PK and KG4 – Kangaroos: YONGKA 

PK and KG3 – Oblong Turtles: CHOONYA 

KG5 – Bobtail Lizards: YOORN 

PPS – Kookaburras: KAA-KAA 

PPD – Wattlebirds: DONGKARAK 

PPC – Honeyeaters: KOOLBOT 

Y1P – Possums: KOOMAL 

Y1K – Kingfishers: KANDIMAK 

Y1S – Galahs: DJAKAL-NGAKAL 

Art/Chinese – Bandicoots: KWENDA 

By embracing Noongar language in our everyday school life, we continue to grow our understanding of First Nations culture and deepen our respect for the land on which we learn. 

The event was a heartfelt step toward building stronger connections and fostering a more inclusive future for all.