Explore the depth of Aboriginal art beyond the clichés, and discover innovative ways to incorporate respectful and meaningful art experiences into your curriculum. Gain insights into both traditional and contemporary art practices, and access valuable resources to infuse Indigenous perspectives into your teaching.

In this session, Jessica Staines will guide you through a process of responding to Aboriginal art provocations authentically whilst avoiding replicas of artists' work.

The storytelling component is equally enriching, covering pedagogical storytelling, yarning circles, curating a First Nations Library, Dreaming Stories, and strategies for bookish play.

"Teaching through culture not teaching culture was such a fantastic takeaway point that just brought so much understanding." - Rebecca Tyson

"You really helped the team understand what we want to achieve and how they can do it!" - Nicki Caddy

"Everyone learned so much and we are all excited today about what’s next for us. Thank you for sharing your Aboriginal culture—it was so interesting." - Malina Newman

Facilitated by Jessica Staines, a leading voice in early childhood education, advocacy, and cultural inclusivity, with extensive experience in empowering educators to embrace diversity and reconciliation. Jessica's expertise and passion for social justice have made a significant impact in building cultural understanding and harmony.

Don't miss this opportunity to elevate your teaching practice and create meaningful connections with Aboriginal perspectives. Secure your spot today for a memorable and enlightening workshop experience!

Date: 3rd September 2025

Registration:6:00 PM

Session Start: 6:30 PM

Session End:8:30 PM

Coffee & tea available on arrival

Location:Gosford RSL Club, 26 Central Coast Hwy, West Gosford NSW 2250

Room: Gallery 4

Facilitator:Jessica Staines, Koori Curriculum Director

Ticket price:$127.00 inc GST and Booking Fee

Jessica Staines is an early childhood educator, professional speaker, author, advocate and advisor.

As the founder and director of Koori Curriculum, Jessica is committed to helping educators embed Aboriginal perspectives into early childhood education.

She has played many significant roles nationally and internationally in building cultural understanding, reconciliation and harmony, including as an Indigenous advisor to ABC’s Playschool.

Her work has been published in industry journals, and she has previously been a part of the AIATSIS Education Advisory Committee and HIPPY Reference group, contributing to the development of resources and programs that support Aboriginal children and families in the early years.

Jessica’s family are Wiradjuri and have lived off Country on Gadigal and Wangal land for four generations. Her family originally came from Cowra, Molong, Parkes and Wellington, but due to displacement, they were disconnected from their family and communities.

Today, Jessica lives on Darkinjung Country with her husband and two children on a peaceful bush block, and is proud to identify as a Wiradjuri woman, with connections to her local Darkinjung community.