Support for Aboriginal Students
Schools and teachers are committed to working with you to ensure that your child is supported throughout their schooling. Support for Koorie students is available through a number of programs that target the specific needs of children and families.
Wannik, from the Gunai/Kurnai language meaning ‘Learning Together – Journey to Our Future’, is the Victorian Government’s education strategy for Koorie students in Victoria.
Wannik represents a new era of collaboration, where the Department works in partnership with Koorie parents and the community to create an education system that respects, recognises and celebrates cultural identity.
Wannik emphasises a culture of high expectations for all Koorie students through individualised learning plans and strong school leadership.
Wannik provides a range of programs designed to increase and develop the learning opportunities and outcomes for Koorie students.
For more information, see: Wannik
Scholarships
As part of the Wannik strategy, a range of scholarships are on offer to Koorie students. The scholarships provide funding for students to participate in a range of programs such as attending specialised leadership schools.
For more information, see: Student Scholarships
Sporting programs
There are two sporting programs in government schools that aim to help Koorie students develop life skills and pursue employment opportunities. The two programs use football and dance to improve attendance and retention for aboriginal students.
For more information, see: Clontarf and Wannik Dance Academies
Tutorial programs
The Wannik Tutorial Programs provide funding to schools with eligible Koorie students for tutorial support to improve literacy and numeracy. This is available for eligible students from Grade 2 – 12. Every Koorie student in Year 11 and 12 is eligible to receive tutorial support.
For more information, see: Wannik Tutorial Programs
ABSTUDY
If your child is an Aboriginal secondary school student, ABSTUDY may help them to stay at school or go on to do further studies. It consists of a fortnightly living allowance as well as additional components to help with the costs associated with attending school.
For more information, see: Centrelink - ABSTUDY
The Charter
The Department has also developed Dardee Borrai: The Victorian Charter of Safety and Wellbeing for Aboriginal Children and Young People. The charter outlines Aboriginal children’s rights, and the responsibility of government and the broader community to ensure that Aboriginal children enjoy the same rights as other Victorian children.
For more information, see: The Charter