Nubalin means “learning” in Awabakal… and that’s exactly what pupils at Windale Public School Preschool got – and more – during the week.
The youngsters gained additional knowledge as part of Aboriginal Languages Week, allowing them to foster a deeper connection to Country, culture, family and kin.
Importantly, the occasion also sparks conversations and highlights the work of local communities to revitalise the traditional vernacular.
Windale Public is one of 23 involved in the Preschool Aboriginal Language Program, which features Paakantji, Dhurga, Gamilaraay, Dharawal, Dharug, Bundjalung, Wiradjuri, Yorta Yorta, Gathang, Dharug Dhalang, Awabakal and Darkinjung.
The initiative aims to increase Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander children’s literacy and vocabulary skills, while supporting opportunities for students to develop into bilingual speakers.
“More than half of the kids in our preschool are Aboriginal,” assistant principal Angela Smith said.
“And, from kindergarten to Year six, it’s about 46% at Windale Public.
“But, we’ve found everyone shows great interest and enthusiasm for learning about Aboriginal culture and language.
“Our goal is to align with the NSW Department of Education’s philosophy that every child is ‘known, valued and cared for’, as well as the Early Years Learning Framework (EYLF) Outcome 1: Children have a strong sense of identity.
“In previous years we have participated in a program that exposed children to Aboriginal languages with great success.
“So, we wanted to reconnect and further children’s knowledge and understanding.”
Each week, Miromaa Aboriginal Language and Technology Centre’s Aunty Jacqui Allen visits the preschool, teaching the four-year-olds Awabakal through music, movement and games.
The children can now recite words for colours, animals, parts of the body, objects, numbers, the landscape and understand instructions.
“The lessons have improved their attention and grasp of language,” Ms Smith said.
“Many of the children now use Awabakal words beyond the sessions including during lunchtime and at home.
“They’re showing increased confidence in discussions and developing a broader vocabulary.
“We’ve also witnessed an increase in engagement with cultural activities and they have been eagerly sharing their knowledge with parents, siblings and educators.”
Ms Smith explained the program was important for both Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal children.
“Our school and preschool embrace inclusivity for everyone,” she said.
“Nubalin preschoolers are interested in learning about culture through visits from our Aboriginal education officer Aunty Belinda Schueppenhauer.
“Learning Aboriginal languages with Aunty Jacqui Allen nurtures pride and belonging, strengthens cultural identity, and enhances understanding and respect.
“It also helps preserve the local Awabakal language.
“Learning at an early age aids cognitive development, enhances memory, problem-solving and critical thinking skills.
“It fosters understanding and respect for Aboriginal culture, improves communication abilities and promotes identity and belonging.
“Learning the Awabakal language strengthens community ties and local connections.
“So, there is much to gain from the program.”
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