The Yiramalay/Wesley Studio School
[Video - Yiramalay]
In November 2004, a partnership between the Aboriginal people of the Fitzroy Valley Community in the Kimberley, Western Australia, and the community of Wesley College Melbourne, was established.
A Memorandum of Understanding signed by both parties encapsulated their deep commitment to learning together, and to expanding horizons and future opportunities for the families and children of both communities.
The stated aims of the partnership were:
- To expand the horizons and life choice expectations of our youth
- To enrich and enhance the whole of life experiences for both communities
- To develop cultural understanding and a capacity to relate to others
- To support and to enhance community cohesion
Within the partnership many projects have flourished including: the development and publication of Bunuba and Walmajarri language curriculum resource units of inquiry for primary school children, the establishment of Wesmob, a Wesley student advocacy group, participation in three Marninwarntikura Women’s Resource Centre Bush Meetings, held on Gooniyandi, Walmajarri and Bunuba country, and participation by Wesley students at the Kimberley Aboriginal Law and Culture Centre (KALACC) Festival.
The Yiramalay/Wesley Studio School is a major educational initiative of the Fitzroy Valley Community and Wesley College Melbourne partnership.The first cohort of students commenced in July 2010 and the school was officially opened on 20 May 2011. To view the media report, which appeared on 6.30 with George Negus on Channel 10 on Friday 20 May 2011 please click here.
To view details of the Yiramalay/Wesley Studio School, please click here.
An article about the establishment of the Studio School was published in the RM Williams Outback magazine, and can be found here.
