You can learn a lot from Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander educators, as they are part of the community and are the link with families.
Work with local Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander educators to plan opportunities for families to meet the teaching team or hold meet and greet events out in the community. This may help build relationships and support families to feel comfortable in getting to know new non-local teachers.
Suggestions for engaging parents and carers in their child’s education:
- when you see family or carers in the community, comment positively on their child’s education experience
- involve families within the class programs where possible
- have open door policies so that parents and carers can see positive learning experiences
- send home positive notes for the students to share with their families.
“Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander educators use existing relationships to support parents to be actively engaged in their children’s education. They use culturally appropriate ways to include parents in the education process.” (Aboriginal teacher, NT).
Teacher Professional standards (Graduate)
2.4 Understand and respect Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people to promote reconciliation between Indigenous and non-Indigenous Australians
7.3 Engage with the parents/carers