About
The First Nations Education Engagement Project is a region-wide initiative supported by Beyond the Bell to strengthen educational engagement, wellbeing, and career pathways for Koorie students across South West Victoria.
Developed through six months of deep collaboration with local schools, Aboriginal-led organisations, and the Department of Education, the project addresses ongoing disparities in school attendance, educational engagement, and post-school opportunities for Koorie students.
Grounded in strong partnerships with Koorie Engagement Support Officers, Traditional Owner groups, educators, and families, this work prioritises culturally safe education and the local voices of First Nations communities. It aligns with key state and national frameworks, including the Marrung Aboriginal Education Plan, Victorian Education State priorities, and the Closing the Gap in education outcomes.
By embedding cultural safety, leadership, and community collaboration, the project ensures that Koorie students are empowered to thrive at school and equipped with the knowledge, confidence, and pathways needed to pursue meaningful futures.
What We Do
First Nations Leadership Days
A series of leadership and cultural awareness workshops designed for Year 5–6 Koorie students.
Activities include co-designing a group logo, yarning with Elders, mentoring with young First Nations leaders, and team-building exercises, culminating in a student-led, regional celebration.
Primary School Celebration Day
A vibrant, student-led cultural event that honours Koorie identity, culture, and connection to Country through storytelling, performances, and cultural activities, celebrating the leadership and voice of young First Nations students.
Koorie Careers and Aspirations Day
A culturally safe career event connecting Koorie students with local employers, training providers, and community organisations. In 2025, over 100 students and 45 stallholders participated, with 100% of students reporting the event helped them consider their future pathways.
Senior Life Readiness Workshop
Developed with First Nations young people aged 16–24, this workshop supports education and employment transitions beyond school. Topics include budgeting, navigating MyGov, accessing ABSTUDY, and building life skills to support independent living.
Education and Wellbeing Mapping Project
This project identifies local, culturally safe supports from early learning to further education and work. It will produce two user-friendly guides, one for Koorie families and students, and one for educators and service providers, featuring original artwork by a local First Nations young person.
Our Impact
Through this initiative, we aim to:
- Strengthen Koorie student engagement, foster cultural identity, and grow leadership opportunities for First Nations students.
- Support smoother transitions between primary school, secondary education, and post-school pathways, including further education, training, and employment.
- Improve access to culturally safe supports across both the education and wellbeing sectors in South West Victoria.
- Build strong partnerships between schools, families, and Aboriginal-led organisations, fostering genuine community collaboration.
- Create practical, community-led tools and resources designed for long-term impact and everyday use by educators, students, and families.
Testimonials
Photo Gallery
