Join us for a transformative and enriching 4.5-hour workshop at the Rydges Armidale that demonstrates ways educators can include Aboriginal culture in their program through the powerful elements of art and storytelling.

This event is a unique two-in-one workshop that seamlessly blends practical application with theoretical understanding. Led by the esteemed Jessica Staines, Director of the Koori Curriculum, you'll receive practical tools and insights to authentically integrate Aboriginal culture into your teaching methodologies.

Embedding Aboriginal Perspectives: Learn how to foreground Aboriginal perspectives in your early childhood curriculum. Gain practical strategies to reflect cultural inclusion and respect for Aboriginal knowledge while aligning with children's interests and inquiries.

Exploring Aboriginal Art: Delve into the rich tapestry of Aboriginal art, moving beyond clichés to appreciate its depth and significance. Jessica will guide you through innovative approaches to incorporate authentic and meaningful art experiences into your classroom, ensuring respect for Indigenous practices and ideas.

Storytelling Techniques: Explore the art of pedagogical storytelling, gain insights into curating a First Nations library, critically reflect on the inclusion of yarning circles and Dreaming Stories, and discover strategies for engaging children in bookish play that embraces Aboriginal narratives.

Interactive Learning: The workshop will feature hands-on activities and collaborative discussions, allowing you to connect with fellow educators and share experiences. You'll leave with a wealth of resources and strategies to enhance your curriculum and foster a culturally inclusive environment.

Date:16th May 2025

Registration: 9:30 AM

Session one: 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM

Lunch: 12:00 PM to 12:30 PM

Session two: 12:30 PM to 2:00 PM

Afternoon tea break: 2:00 PM to 2:15 PM

Session three: 2:15PM to 3:30 PM

Location: Rydges Armidale, 31 Marsh St, Armidale, 2350, NSW

Facilitator:Jessica Staines, Koori Curriculum Director

Ticket price:$289.00 inc GST

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.