Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander education
Learn about First Nations education in our public schools and how we support student achievement.
Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander education in ACT public schools aims to:
- enable all students to learn about First Nations histories, cultures, languages, knowledge systems and Australia’s shared history
- improve education outcomes for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students
- create a school environment that respects and integrates the cultural identities, histories and perspectives of First Nations peoples.
To help achieve this we provide:
- professional learning for teachers, school leaders, education support officers and other school-based staff
- curriculum resources
- Mura Awards and scholarships to support students to achieve their goals.
Mura Awards
The Mura Awards recognise student achievement. They are an opportunity for schools to:
- acknowledge the consistent effort of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students
- engage with families and the local community.
Each year, schools can nominate one child to receive the Mura Award in each of these year levels: 5, 6, 9, 10 and 11.
The $400 bursary attached to the Mura Awards helps with school expenses such as excursions, equipment, books and uniforms. It is held at the school and parents and carers decide how to use the funds.
Secondary and tertiary scholarships
We administer 2 scholarship programs specifically for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students.
The Secondary Scholarship Program is:
- for full-time students in years 11 and 12 in ACT public schools
- open for applications from the end of term 2 until the end of term 3. Students complete the application with support from their teachers
- for up to $4000 over 2 years.
The Tertiary Scholarship Program usually opens in term 1 each year. It can provide funding of up to $30,000 over 3 years.
To apply you must be:
- enrolled in a teaching course at an ACT university
- willing to live and work in the ACT.
We notify schools and universities when applications open. Students apply through Smartygrants website.
Koori Preschool
Koori Preschool is a free program for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children. It offers:
- up to 15 hours a week of free education and care during school term
- play-based learning that is deeply connected to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander culture.
Koori Preschool is available for children aged from birth to 5 years. If your child is:
- under the age of 3, they must attend with a parent or carer
- aged from 3 to 5 years, they attend on their own.
Find out more about Koori Preschool.