Both of our Year 2 classes went on an educational Aboriginal cultural experience excursion to Herdsman Lake. This was to explore a real Western Australian wetland while at the same time discovering scientific, historical, geographical and cultural concepts, skills and values. The experience was to help them to understand that they can contribute to environmental science and participate in WA’s sustainable growth.

The students were guided by experienced education officers (Nyungar Aboriginals) through a range of indigenous learning activities. These hands-on activities were linked with the Australian curriculum and took place on the banks of Noogenboro (Herdsman Lake), which was a traditional Nyungar camp ground. They also provided a bridge of common understanding between contemporary and traditional thinking, breaking down cultural barriers as the students learnt about the modern and ancient ecological footprint.

We started with a 'Smoking ceremony'/Welcome to Country then the students broke into groups and: listened to a Dreaming story and information about the Nyungar culture and language, went on a bushwalk to see the wildlife, painted a rock using aboriginal techniques and learnt how to throw a spear.

Judith Milford and Cheri Pestell

Year 2 Teachers