Berwick College has topped the state for its Koorie education program.
The college won the Outstanding Koorie Education Award at the recent 2017 Victorian Education Excellence Awards.
Praise was given to the college’s respectful bicultural learning program that celebrated Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander culture, history and language.
Assistant principal Alison Birkett said the college embraced diversity with an “inclusive school culture built on respect”.
“We support our Indigenous students to develop the skills, confidence and pride they need to be strong lifelong ambassadors for their culture.”
The college was recognised for its inclusive Marrung Aboriginal Education Plan – including a dedicated Koorie education section on the school website, an annual award for Koorie students and a commitment to Bridging the Gap.
Other initiatives were Koorie students being given time together at morning teas and representing the Koorie cohort at student-led forums.
The college also helps Koorie students form study pathways and career action plans, and are assigned mentors.
Principal Kerrie Bolch said the awards were testament to the college’s tireless, professional staff.
“It is a privilege to talk about the work our passionate and dedicated teachers do every day that make a difference to the students, families and the community we serve.”
The college’s ConnectED program was also in the top-three finalists in the award’s Outstanding Education Support Team category.
