John Curtin College of the Arts

Stories capture a moment in time, they educate us, they help us grow and make sense of the world around us. As a College of the Arts we can make a difference in reconciliation. Our vision is to use the arts as a vehicle to share stories, create a shared understanding and continue the traditions of one of the longest enduring cultures of passing on knowledge through dance, music, visual arts, drama, and media. Inspired by the Imagination Declaration (2019) the objective is to use our power as a College to take the imagined and make it possible. The future lies in the hands of our youth. Designing learning environments that shape views and perspectives to make the future a better place for all Australians, by acknowledging the past, being innovative and creative. Exploring how we engage all students in learning the Aboriginal ways of being, knowing and doing.

We recognise that we can learn from First Nations culture and history, and we are committed to developing a deep and honest understanding of First Nations perspectives and experiences. To achieve this, we prioritise listening, connecting, and building inclusive relationships with our students, teachers, school community, Elders, and broader community. By working together and fostering mutual respect, we can create a responsive and inclusive approach to education that bridges the gap in cultural knowledge and understanding. As a College of the Arts, we recognise our unique opportunity to use creativity and artistic expression to engage in the process of reconciliation. We strive to approach this work in a way that is authentic and meaningful, leveraging the College values to reflect on the past and create a future where reconciliation is a lived reality, not just an idea. We are committed to the ongoing work of knowing, being, and doing as we work towards a future where we can all share in the richness and diversity of Australia’s culture and history.