Marrung Aboriginal Education Plan

Each of Footscray High School’s three campuses are located on Wurundjeri Country.

Footscray High School is committed to recognition, respect, justice and equality for First Nations peoples. We follow the Marrung Aboriginal Education Plan 2016-2026, which was developed for Victorian schools by the Department of Education in consultation with the Koorie community and the Victorian Aboriginal Education Association [VAEAI].

Marrung is a tailored form of reconciliation action for schools that assists us to embed it into our day to day work. The Marrung vision contains three broad priorities, each of which we are addressing:

  • The rich and thriving culture, knowledge and experience of our First Nations peoples is celebrated and acknowledged inside the classroom and in the wider school community
  •  Our school is inclusive, responsive and respectful of Koorie people at every stage of their learning and development journey
  • Every Koorie student achieves their potential, succeeds in life, and feels strong in their cultural identity

Our staff are committed to ensuring that we embed First Nations perspectives across all subject areas. Additionally, our school has curricular programs that prioritise First Nations ways of thinking, knowing and doing. For example, in STEAM, students design and build a project while considering how First Nations knowledge systems can influence sustainability. 

Marrung prioritises self-determination and emphasises community consultation. The school is currently strengthening its processes to ensure that we are meeting this objective. We regularly inform families of our events and strategies and seek input and feedback. 

Footscray High School has a cohort of Koorie students who have the opportunity to participate together in specific events, activities and family gatherings to strengthen cultural identity. The school has a [non-indigenous] staff member assigned to steering Marrung, who can help families with opportunities and issues. The school also works with the regional Koorie Education Support Officer [KESO] to provide individual support where necessary.