This week, St John’s has been acknowledging NAIDOC week, which was celebrated in the holidays. Staff have engaged in prayer and reflection on the theme: “The next generation: Strength, Vision and Legacy”. Students have been exploring the theme and First Nations cultures through stories, art and connecting to Country through practicing dadirri, a spiritual practice of deep listening, reflection, and connection to Country. Today, Mrs Leighton attended the NAIDOC week mass with some students and families at St Christopher’s Cathedral in Manuka.

As teachers, we often reflect on how we can nurture our students spiritually, intellectually and emotionally so we have found that the theme this year has really resonated with us. Our calling to work as teachers means that we have a responsibility to guide the next generation, developing their strengths, keeping a strong vision, so that we can leave a legacy in our communities.

Year 6 research on First Nations artists: