Strengthening Cultural Connections - For Staff

SUPPORTING CARERS OF NON-ABORIGINAL AND TORRES STRAIT ISLANDER CHILDREN

Strengthening Cultural Connections reflects a wide range of topics and information that non-Aboriginal carers need at an introductory level when caring for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children. This workshop will support case managers and agency staff who work with non-Aboriginal carers.

There are four modules of learning:

Module 1: Understanding Culture
Learning objectives

• Participants will be able to define what culture is

• Participants will develop and explore their own culture

• Participants will be able to explain the concepts of cultural disconnection and how it affects individuals and communities

Module 2: History of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander People
Learning objectives

• Participants will explore key elements of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people before colonisation

• Participants will develop an understanding of the timeline and key events of colonisation

• Participants will explore the immediate impacts of colonisation

• Participants will identify important government policies and legislation

Module 3: It’s not all in the past- contemporary issues for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people
Learning objectives

• Learners will develop a deeper understanding of the foundations of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander culture and knowledge systems

• Learners will develop an understanding of the long-term and ongoing impact of past experiences, policies and legislation on Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander families today.

• Learners will begin to identify practical ways of promoting cultural connections for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children and young people

• Learners will be empowered to engage in and celebrate Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander events and activities as allies

Module 4: Advocacy and your role as a carer
Learning Objectives

• Learners will develop an understanding of the Child Protection system to empower them when advocating for the cultural needs of children and young people in their care.

• Learners will understand microaggressions, privilege and discrimination and identify ways to advocate for children and young people who may experience discrimination