The Department of Education and Training and the ten independent colleges making up the TAFEWA network employ a significant number of Aboriginal personnel to support a range of programs in Aboriginal education and training. Aboriginal staff work in leadership, teaching and support roles in schools, district offices, TAFEWA colleges and central office and promote understanding and appreciation of Aboriginal culture amongst staff and students. Approximately 3% of all employees in the Department are Aboriginal and almost 5% of employees in TAFEWA colleges are Aboriginal people.
Culture Strong, Career Proud is the Department's Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Employment Strategy for 2008-2010. It is a commitment to increase the representation of Aboriginal employees in the Department.
Managers of Aboriginal Education provide high-level advice to Directors, schools and principals and they play a key leadership role in establishing programs and direction for Aboriginal education across the district.
Coordinators of Aboriginal Education assist districts and schools to implement culturally appropriate initiatives to improve outcomes in Aboriginal Education. Their role also includes the provision of professional leadership for Aboriginal education in all matters at the district level and extensive support to Aboriginal and Islander Education Officers (AIEOs).
Aboriginal Liaison Officers support the Manager of Aboriginal Education in achieving partnerships between the Aboriginal community, schools and districts. They provide particular assistance with improving student attendance and increasing community involvement in schools. (See Career Support for ALO Criteria Progression Guidelines)
Aboriginal and Islander Education Officers (AIEO) provide support and assistance to Aboriginal and students. The AIEOs work with parents/guardians, the school community and teachers in schools to enhance learning outcomes for students through their knowledge, understanding and sharing of Aboriginal histories, languages and cultures. (See Career Support for AIEO Handbook)
Follow the Dream Coordinators collaborate with schools, families and community organisations to assist Aboriginal students to achieve their personal, educational and employment potential.
LOTE Teachers (Aboriginal Languages) The Department employs LOTE teachers who teach Aboriginal languages in schools.
Aboriginal staff are employed throughout TAFEWA colleges as lecturers, Aboriginal Managers, Aboriginal Program Coordinators and Aboriginal Student Support Officers.
Aboriginal Education, Training and Employment Officers (AETEO) are placed within Aboriginal organisations in various
rural and remote locations. The role involves working closely with
local schools, regional training organisations, Aboriginal agencies, government
and non-government agencies, industry and employment agencies to foster opportunities
for Aboriginal school students to make transitions from school to further
study or work. The purpose of the AETEO Program is to assist Aboriginal people,
communities and organisations to develop locally based education, training,
employment and enterprise initiatives.