About us

The Aboriginal Education Branch's key focus is on improving the educational achievements and outcomes of Aboriginal students by providing strategic advice and support.

The Branch plays a pivotal leadership role that includes comprehensive support networking, brokering funding and collaboration with the Australian Government and other stakeholders to ensure joint goals and directions. The Branch is also responsible for monitoring and reporting on the achievement of system level standards in Aboriginal education.

The Aboriginal Education Plan for WA Public Schools 2011-2014 sets out how we will improve the education outcomes of Aboriginal students and is aligned with the national Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Education Action Plan 2010-2014.

The Branch has a range of initiatives that focus on closing the gap between the education outcomes of Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal students. The Branch’s key focus areas are:

• Readiness for school
• Attendance
• Literacy and numeracy
• Pathways to real post-school options
• Engagement and connections
• Leadership, quality teaching and workforce development

Our goal for Aboriginal students

Aboriginal students are confident and successful learners who complete their schooling with the knowledge and skills to access further education, training and employment.

Our role

The Aboriginal Education Branch has key responsibility for:

• the development and implementation of strategic policy direction for Aboriginal education;
• the management of strategic planning, direction and initiatives for Aboriginal education;
• provision of support to regions, networks and schools in achieving improved learning outcomes for Aboriginal students;
• consultation with the Aboriginal community to ensure that the educational needs and aspirations are identified and addressed;
• representing the Department on local, State and national working parties and committees on Aboriginal education, strategies and issues;
• research national and international trends and best practice in Aboriginal education to develop leading edge practice that maximises educational outcomes; and
• providing professional development and leadership programs to regional, network and school-based staff on Aboriginal education.

Our ethos

Working in partnership empowers all to make a significant difference.

Our commitments

The education of Aboriginal students is the focus of our work.  Our commitments to Aboriginal students guide our work.

We will:

• develop and implement strategic directions in Aboriginal education that facilitates innovative and flexible practice in schools;
• support schools, networks and regions to improve the educational outcomes of Aboriginal students;
• promote the engagement of Aboriginal people in educational planning and decision-making processes;
• promote high expectations of Aboriginal students and the development of a strong sense of identity as successful learners and as Aboriginal Australians;
• support teachers and school leaders to incorporate culturally inclusive perspectives as part of the learning program;
• conduct ethical research and promote best practice in Aboriginal education; and
• ensure high standards of accountability for Aboriginal education.