The Yadha Muru Foundation (YMF), in partnership with the Australian Government’s City-Country Partnerships Program, is proud to announce a groundbreaking initiative connecting Alekarenge School and Murray Downs School (in the Imangara community), two very remote schools in the Northern Territory, with Trinity Grammar School in Sydney. This partnership, born from the shared aspirations of local communities, represents a powerful step towards closing the educational gap and fostering cultural understanding.
The program’s structure reflects the unique needs of the involved communities. By establishing a “cluster approach” encompassing two schools and several language groups, such as Warlpiri, Waramungu, Kaytetye and Alyawarr, the partnership fosters a sense of shared identity and cultural exchange. Three key pillars underpin this initiative: improving student attendance, providing professional development for educators, and offering reciprocal immersion experiences for both schools.
Strategic initiatives will incentivise consistent attendance at Alekarenge and Murray Downs, including special events, engaging learning programs and individualised support. A highlight is the immersive Sydney experience at Trinity, offering NT students a glimpse into urban life and future possibilities.
Best practices will be shared across all three schools, with a focus on student-centred learning and integrating Aboriginal perspectives into the curriculum. Trinity teachers will gain invaluable insights through tailored visits, while remote teachers will benefit from expertise in early literacy, numeracy and technology integration.
Alekarenge and Murray Downs students will share their cultural knowledge with Trinity students, both in their communities and during the Sydney immersion. This reciprocal exchange will broaden horizons and deepen cultural appreciation for all participants.
The partnership extends beyond immediate needs. Trinity’s Learning Support staff will provide remote and face-to-face support to identify and address individual learning needs. Additionally, navigating the NCCD process to unlock funding for ongoing intervention is a crucial aspect.
To ensure seamless communication and collaboration, the program prioritises upgrading internet connectivity in both remote schools. This will facilitate ongoing virtual interactions and support remote learning initiatives.
This partnership goes beyond academic outcomes. It fosters reconciliation by providing Trinity students and staff with firsthand experiences of Aboriginal culture and perspectives. This will contribute to a more inclusive and informed learning environment at Trinity and broader Sydney community.
The Yadha Muru Foundation, in collaboration with the City-Country Partnerships Program, has established a promising partnership with the potential to significantly impact the lives of students and educators across remote and urban communities. By addressing key challenges and fostering cultural understanding, this initiative paves the way for a brighter future, built on shared goals and mutual respect.
