Somerset's Inaugural RAP

Recently Somerset finalised its Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP) which has now been endorsed by Narragunnawali. It’s an incredibly powerful part of the College's proud 38-year history.

We are committed to working with Community Elders and all First Nations People, to be led by them and to play our important role in closing the gap for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander People.

Somerset is well placed to learn from First Nations’ People, as we continue to listen and build cultural intelligence together. Action always speaks louder than words and the points below might support this from the past 10 years:

• Inviting Indigenous presenters at Storyfest and Festival of Entrepreneurship.
• Supporting the Indigenous Literacy Foundation.
• Attendance and participation in local and national commemorations like that held at Myall Creek annually.
• Annual visits to Wakka Wakka Country to work alongside students from Barambah cluster schools in what are known as B Trips.
• Creation of The Yarning Circle – a timeless way of learning for staff and students, designed by local artist, Ms Narelle Urquhart alongside Somerset students.
• Established the College’s RAP team to provide essential cultural input, advice and recommendations.
• A commitment to actively seek to embed and resource the perspectives of Australia’s First Peoples within curriculum where possible.
• Hosted the Yugambeh Mobo.
• Acknowledgement of Country protocols along with the flying of Aboriginal and Torres Straight Islander flags.

There is still plenty we can do. Our RAP has now been developed and endorsed which will assist the College to work towards achieving our vision for reconciliation.

It’s an exciting time as we continue the journey asking how we can walk alongside our First Nations’ People. It is our intention to make the document accessible on the forthcoming revised website.