Launch of BEPS’ Reconciliation Action Plan

Launch of BEPS’ Reconciliation Action Plan

Children watch Smoking Ceremony

On Thursday 6 February, the BEPS community gathered to mark a significant moment in our school’s journey towards reconciliation. The day began with a powerful Welcome to Country from Uncle Perry, followed by a traditional Smoking Ceremony that set the tone for a year of commitment to respect, unity, and learning.

This event also marked the official launch of our Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP), our formal statement of commitment to reconciliation.

The Smoking Ceremony and Welcome to Country were a reminder of our collective responsibility in creating a respectful and inclusive environment. Uncle Perry’s words and the ceremony grounded us in the importance of acknowledging the land we live on, and the deep cultural traditions of the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.

The launch of our RAP is a proud moment for BEPS. This document is more than just a statement – it’s our active plan for change. It documents how BEPS will strengthen relationships, respect and opportunities, in the classroom, around the school or service, and with the community, with a focus on education and awareness. Developed with the guidance of the Narragunnawali platform, our RAP reflects local aspirations and aspires for ongoing, meaningful progress.

A heartfelt congratulations is due to the Reconciliation Action Plan Subcommittee for their hard work in shaping this plan. Their dedication and passion continue to be a driving force behind our school’s reconciliation efforts.

As we embark on this journey, we invite everyone in our community to get involved. Whether you’re a student, parent, or staff member, there’s always room for more voices at the table. If you’re passionate about reconciliation, we encourage you to join the RAP Committee and help us build a school culture that celebrates respect, learning, and unity.

Brunswick East Primary School acknowledges the over 85,000 years of care and Custodianship of the Wurundjeri People of the Kulin Nation for the lands and waters that it resides on. We pay respect to Wurundjeri Elders, past and present, and to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. Their sovereignty has never been ceded and this always was and always will be Aboriginal Land. We live, learn, and gather as a community on Wurundjeri Land and commit ourselves as Aboriginal people, Torres Strait Islander people, and allies for today and future generations, walking together.

BEPS Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP)