In summary

  • Certificate II Migrant English students at Swinburne's Croydon Campus participated in a five-week program to learn about Aboriginal history and culture.

  • The program, led by Elder-in-Residence Miranda Madgwick, included hands-on learning, presentations, and excursions.

  • Students researched and presented their own projects, exploring topics such as Dreamtime stories, Aboriginal artefacts, and traditional foods.

Certificate II Migrant English students at Swinburne University of Technology's Croydon campus have taken part in an immersive five-week program to learn about the rich history and culture of Australia's First Nations peoples. The program was led by Miranda Madgwick, Swinburne's Elder-in-Residence, in collaboration with the Moondani Toombadool Centre. 
 
"Sharing Aboriginal history and culture with Migrant English students was an incredibly meaningful experience for both them and myself. Through hands-on learning and storytelling, the students gained a deeper understanding of Australia’s First Nations peoples and felt more connected to the land and its cultural roots,” Miranda said.

“It was inspiring to see them embrace Dreamtime stories, traditional foods, and our history with such curiosity and respect”.

Throughout the sessions, students explored key aspects of Aboriginal culture, starting with an introduction to the Kulin Nation's history, artefacts, and totems. Each group selected a totem to research and present to their classmates.

In another session, students learned about native herbs and spices, including a demonstration of a traditional kangaroo steak recipe by chef Mark Olive. The class later prepared and presented their own dishes, incorporating ingredients used by Aboriginal communities. 

Miranda introduced students to Dreamtime stories, such as Tiddalick the Frog and Mirram the Kangaroo. The students then selected Dreamtime stories of their choice, researching and presenting them, along with the lessons each story teaches.

The program’s hands-on approach extended to an arts and crafts session, where students created ceremonial headbands and armbands. They learned about their cultural significance and the occasions on which these items are worn.

  • Three male students stand in the center of a traditional aboriginal fire pit.
    Swinburne Migrant English students at a traditional fire pit in the historic Coranderrk Aboriginal Station.
  • Elder-in-Residence Miranda Madgwick stands with two Swinburne Migrant English students in front of a beautiful view of trees and water at the Maroondah Reservoir.
    Swinburne Migrant English students at the Maroondah Reservoir with Elder-in-Residence Miranda Madgwick.
  • A group of Migrant English Students smile in front of a reservoir of water. In the distance there are tree covered mountains.
    Swinburne Migrant English students at the Maroondah Reservoir.
  • Migrant English Students are sitting in a row on natural rocks in front of a clearing. They are surrounded by trees and nature.
    Swinburne Migrant English students Badger Creek with Elder-in-Residence Miranda Madgwick.

The final session was an excursion to significant Aboriginal sites, including Oonah Aboriginal Health Service and Badger Creek, part of the historic Coranderrk Aboriginal Station. The students were accompanied by Vicky Peters, Director of Indigenous Engagement at Swinburne, who shared personal insights about her family's connection to these important places.

Through this unique program, students gained a deeper understanding of Aboriginal culture and history, with many expressing newfound appreciation for this integral part of Australia’s heritage.

Reflecting on the program, student Danna shared, "It was good to learn about the history and problems faced by the Aboriginal people." Mang also found the program enriching, saying, "Dreamtime stories were very interesting."

Vicky Peters emphasised the importance of introducing Migrant English students to Aboriginal history and culture as part of their learning journey.  

"Providing our Migrant English students with the opportunity to learn about Aboriginal history and culture is vital in fostering a deeper connection to Australia’s heritage,” Vicky explained. 

“This program encourages understanding and respect for the First Nations peoples, and it helps new members of our community appreciate the rich cultural history that shapes the land they now call home."

Related articles