AFTER a year of learning local culture Moree East students will showcase their talents to the community tomorrow evening.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
The students will perform for the Festival of the Brolga, a production which will include singing, dancing, shadow puppetry, video and light displays.
The event will be a celebration of the teachings and the experiences of sharing in culture between students, staff and the general community.
MEPS principal, Muriel Kelly, said senior leader of community and engagement, Matt Priestley, had a vision for the school and with the support of Bronwyn Spearim has been able to teach the students and teachers about local cultural activities such as dance, language and story telling.
Tomorrow’s event will see the culmination of the year’s learning celebrated.
“We’re embarking on something and this is only the beginning,” Mrs Kelly said.
“It’s all about working education and culture together for the benefit of the children,” she said.
“Our wider vision is that we hope, down the track, we can share our knowledge and invite other schools to join our learnings. After all, we are one community, and one nation.”
“We’re trying to find that balance between culture and education and marry them,” Mrs Kelly said.
“We’ve been getting really positive feedback from those involved with the school and some are feeling more valued as a community person and with what they can offer the school,” she said.
“The school can’t do everything, it also has to be up to the families and the community members. We have to work in partnership if a child is to have success.
“The students aren’t forced into doing these activities. We try and work on their strengths and interests to give them the confidence to engage with others.
“For example, we have some students who didn’t want to do dance or music so they are more involved with IT such as filming and lighting, and they’ll also play their part on the night.
“We have a great team who are all very supportive and the communication is very positive. We all have the same vision, it’s all about the kids.”
Aunty Bronnie said the children were very enthusiastic for the night, after spending the year practising.
The gates to the school will be open from 6pm. A ‘safety net’ exhibition will be open until the show starts at 7.30pm. This will include pieces of what the students believe represents them and someone they feel safe around.
A few market stalls and food will be available.
