Aboriginal Education Team
The Aboriginal Education team at Gilmore College provides pastoral care, academic support and targeted programs to support the educational success, wellbeing and cultural identity of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students.
The team works collaboratively with students, families, staff and community to create a culturally responsive and supportive learning environment. It comprises the Aboriginal Education Program Coordinator, Aboriginal and Islander Education Officers (AIEOs), and the Gilmore College Clontarf Academy, Follow the Dream and Stars Foundation programs.
Program Coordinator – Aboriginal Education
The Aboriginal Education Program Coordinator provides strategic leadership and guidance to school leaders, teachers and support staff to promote the effective and culturally responsive delivery of education programs for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students. The Coordinator researches, develops, implements and monitors programs, strategies and systems that provide meaningful support to students and their families.
Drawing on Aboriginal perspectives, knowledge and understandings, the Coordinator facilitates professional learning and supports staff to strengthen their understanding of Aboriginal education, culture and perspectives and build their cultural responsiveness to improve educational outcomes for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students. They also work closely with school leaders and staff to foster culturally responsive relationships with Aboriginal organisations, community members and parents and caregivers.
Aboriginal and Islander Education Officer
Aboriginal and Islander Education Officers (AIEOs) play an important role in creating a supportive, inclusive and culturally responsive learning environment for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students.
Working as a bridge between the school, students, families and the wider community, AIEOs provide mentoring, pastoral care and guidance to First Nations students to develop general like skills and strategies for navigating school and everyday life. Through personalised support and care, AIEOs help students build confidence and independence, while encouraging their participation, engagement and achievement at school, contributing to a positive school experience.
Their responsibilities may also include assisting with administrative tasks, managing classroom resources and supporting teachers with behaviour management strategies for students who may be at risk of disengagement.
