How Three Kindergartens Are Embedding Reconciliation Year Round

During National Reconciliation Week, three C&K kindergarten directors from Woodford, Acacia Ridge and Kirwan shared reflections on their ongoing reconciliation journeys. Their stories show how early education environments can honour Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander perspectives and cultures through everyday relationships, respect and community connection.

Their stories demonstrate the teams’ commitment to learning alongside children and families. They all concluded the positive impact on their communities when reconciliation is embedded in their daily work, in how educators plan and teach, how children connect with Country, and how families feel seen and supported.

“Our organisation is on a journey of reconciliation,” said C&K CEO Dr Sandra Cheeseman. “It is not something you set aside for special events. When culture is embedded meaningfully in daily practice, it strengthens learning, relationships, and a child’s sense of identity. That’s what high-quality early education looks like.”

At C&K Woodford Community Kindergarten, reconciliation is a daily commitment shaped by community, reflection and learning. Guided by Director Chloe Wardle and Quandamooka educator Rachael, the team began with a cultural pulse check and transformed their entrance with Jinibara artwork and stories. A study tour to Waiben (Thursday Island) sparked deeper changes. From kai kai cooking and weaving with children, to Floral Fridays and a growing bush tucker garden.

“We were determined to build our cultural capability — we just needed to know where to start,” the team shared. “Now we are embedding this knowledge in everything we do.”

At C&K Acacia Ridge, reconciliation is built on strong relationships with local Elders and a commitment to learning through culture. With guidance from Aunty Marg and her daughters Charlene and Tracey, the team co-developed a reconciliation vision, and embedded Yuggera language and songs into daily practice. Charlene, a local artist, is now working with children to create meaningful murals that reflect community stories and strength.

“It’s not just about including culture, it’s about learning through it,” said Director Renee Randall. “The knowledge shared by Elders has reshaped how we think, plan and teach.”

At C&K Kirwan Community Kindergarten, Director Kylie Krawczyk shared that her team explored how non-Indigenous educators can authentically embed First Nations perspectives through a year-long Community of Practice. Children now help lead cultural rituals and a local Torres Strait Islander family contributes language and weaving to the program.

“This journey has changed how I see my role,” Kylie said. “It is no longer about adding culture in. It is about creating a space where culture is already lived and recognised.”

Each of these centres are supported by Kindy Uplift funding, a Queensland Government initiative to improve outcomes in areas of greatest need. The work being shared reflects what culturally responsive education can look like when relationships are strong and practice is thoughtful.

“These stories remind us that reconciliation is something we live every day. When we walk alongside community, we help children grow up connected, capable and proud.”

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