Time: 9.30 AM – 3.30 PM (may finish early)

Date: 16 and 17 September

Location: VACCA Preston Office – 340 BELL Street, Preston Victoria 3072 (Lunch included)

Presented by: VACCA

Strengthening Cultural Connections (Replacing Nikara’s Journey)

CARING FOR ABORIGINAL OR 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.

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