Cultural Responsiveness

The Cultural Responsiveness Subcommittee supports the Somerly Primary School P&C in fostering an inclusive and culturally respectful school community.

The subcommittee provides advice and guidance on cultural matters and helps ensure that P&C initiatives recognise and celebrate the diversity of families within the school. A key focus of the group is supporting respectful recognition of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures as the First Nations peoples of Australia.

Working alongside the school and community members, the subcommittee helps identify important cultural events and advises the P&C on meaningful ways these occasions may be acknowledged or celebrated within the school community.

Key responsibilities include:

• Advising the P&C on cultural awareness and inclusion initiatives
• Supporting recognition of significant cultural events such as NAIDOC Week, National Reconciliation Week, Harmony Week, and other culturally significant days
• Providing guidance on respectful cultural practices and protocols
• Supporting culturally inclusive events and activities within the school community
• Encouraging engagement and participation from families of diverse cultural backgrounds
• Strengthening connections with local Aboriginal community members and organisations where appropriate
• Promoting cultural understanding and learning opportunities within the school community

The subcommittee includes an Indigenous Cultural Advisor who provides guidance on Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultural matters and supports culturally respectful engagement.

Through its work, the Cultural Responsiveness Subcommittee helps build a school community where all cultures are valued, respected, and celebrated.

Anyone with feedback, suggestions, or questions should reach out to the convener Janelle Smith on 0458559165