Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander histories and culture can be and should be studied throughout the year – not just during NAIDOC Week or Reconciliation Week. The Australian Curriculum is designed so First Nations histories and culture are embedded into all learning areas, rather than as an isolated topic in one unit of work or addressed on a specific day or special occasion.

You don’t always need to plan elaborate activities that take away from your core role of teaching during these special times of year. Despite best intentions, on occasions, some of the activities for the week may not be thoroughly organised and their execution may be rushed. Instead, aim to embed First Nations histories and culture throughout the year and use NAIDOC Week or Reconciliation Week to showcase the work students have done throughout the year, just like Sharon Lynch did with her art classes at Immanuel Primary School.