Yaama Ngindaay! Hello!
This week, IGS had a very special visit from Goodooga Central School’s (GCS) students as part of the School’s Walking Together Program. It was a fabulous day of activities, developing and enriching a unique relationship.
Students reflected on their day
“I really enjoyed catching up and meeting all the people, especially the year 12 students. It was nice to see what kind of major work they are doing in Aboriginal Studies. I hope to come back to the school and see the students again as it was a good experience to learn about and be out of the country and see how it is from country to city,” said Jazmine.
“I really enjoyed hanging out and meeting new people at IGS and going to different classes.” – Ruby
“I liked talking with the Year 12 students sharing stories about the differences in where we live. I liked hearing about the Year 12 major projects. I liked the drama class and doing origami in Japanese class.” – Ava
“I enjoyed the Japanese lesson and learning how to make origami and write calligraphy. I also really loved the opportunity to be involved with the podcast.” – Kiyesha
The School’s Walking Together Program between IGS and Goodooga Central School has entered its 4th year of exchange visits. It is a story of a friendship between two communities, a remote rural Aboriginal community in Yuwaalaraay Country and an urban private school in Sydney on Gadigal Land. The immersion is done in partnership with Glenn Price of Connecting Communities Australia alongside IGS and GCS.
This relationship privileges First Nations voices, histories and cultures as its core. IGS sends 30 Year 6 students every June- the school offers the students accommodation on campus where they experience cultural and language immersion in the School classroom, listen to Elders in yarning circles and take part in smoking ceremonies and cultural dance. The students spend time out on Country taking part in rich cultural learning and truth telling. Reciprocally GSC sends students to participate in a number of cultural and career events in Sydney including an immersion day at IGS.
Some GCS staff also shared some thoughts
“We enjoyed sharing stories with the kids and really enjoyed hearing the stories they shared with us. We could tell that our stories from out bush were new for the kids. We hoped to help them with their Aboriginal Studies major works. We really liked seeing the kids learning languages. It is an eye opener for our kids to experience bigger classes and such a big school. They made us feel welcome and the hospitality was unreal.” – Aunty Karen and Uncle Bob
“It’s always hard to cater for changes in routines but you handled us very well. The students enjoyed and participated in all activities from the youngest to the oldest students. Your hospitality is very much appreciated and we look forward to welcoming you to our school. Thank you.” – Mindy Gibbs
“This experience has been invaluable for our students who have embraced every chance to make connections and learn about all the opportunities available. Our students should be proud of what they’ve achieved this week.” – Head of Secondary at Goodooga, Madeleine Williamson
IGS and GCS are proud of this Program and all its achievements. Empowering Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander voices is life changing for future generations.
We look forward to IGS students and staff heading out west to stay on Yuwaalaraay Country in June.
Maayubaa and Yaluu until next time!
