To kick off Term 4, Ascham colleagues came together to deepen our practice, strengthen our cultural understanding and refine our curriculum planning — all in the spirit of growth and connection. Throughout the day, we engaged in a variety of workshops linked to our ‘Inspired Teaching and Learning’ strategic commitment, as well as Ascham’s Ngara Commitment, which comprises a holistic and whole-school approach to creating a culturally responsive school that boldly contributes to the Australian story of reconciliation with our First Nations People.
We were honoured to learn from Aunty Professor Lynette Riley from The University of Sydney. Professor Riley is a proud Wiradjuri and Gamilaroi woman, whose insights into Aboriginal education and Indigenous perspectives challenged and inspired us. Her session reminded us of the importance of truth-telling, respect and cultural integrity in our classrooms.
Wendy Gerakios, Aboriginal Education Consultant at the Association of Independent Schools of NSW, guided us through embedding Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander content in the 7–10 curriculum, exploring key concepts of Country, Custodianship and Identity. Her workshop offered practical strategies aligned with NSW teacher accreditation (Standards 1 and 2), empowering us to teach with authenticity and cultural responsiveness.
Our Junior School team continued their journey with Programming and Planning in the HSIE Syllabus K–6, led by Carrie Alker from AISNSW. The session provided clarity, structure and inspiration for meaningful learning experiences across stages.
Our Senior School English Department collaborated with Meaghan Hird, English Teaching and Learning Consultant at AISNSW, to design text-specific, outcome-related assessments. This work will strengthen throughlines in text choices from Stage 5 through to Year 11 and 12, ensuring coherence and depth in our English programs.
A huge thank you to our presenters and all staff who engaged with both curiosity and respect.
