Catholic Schools Parramatta Diocese (CSPD) recognises and respects the heritage, spirituality, cultures and deep connection to Country of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.

We are committed to creating inclusive and outstanding learning environments for all young people. Aboriginal education is incorporated on a daily basis into the curriculum of our 80 Primary and Secondary schools across Western Sydney and the Blue Mountains, from early education through to post-school options.

Aboriginal And Torres Strait Islander Education - Jarara - Catholic Schools Parramatta Diocese Ltd

What schools in the Diocese of Parramatta learn

Our schools include the following as the basis for learning and teaching programs:

seeking cultural advice and understanding
Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal students coming together
sharing of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander history
building connections and relationships within and beyond the classroom
student engagement
Aboriginal content and perspectives embedded in all Key Learning Areas
embedding Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander histories and cultures into the school strategic plan
building staff and students’ cultural knowledge about Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander culture, histories and experiences
Personalising learning for each student
demonstrating that Aboriginal culture is truly valued in the school environment.

A number of our schools have dedicated yarning spaces, cultural groups and inclusive Aboriginal Cultural Programs. An understanding of Aboriginal spirituality is incorporated into Religious Education programs, prayer and liturgy.

Aboriginal Education - St Thomas Aquinas Primary Springwood - Catholic Schools Parramatta Diocese Ltd

Jarara Cultural Centre

‘Jarara’ is a Wiradjuri word meaning ‘water tumbling over rocks’.

Working closely with Catholic Schools NSW and all CSPD staff, our Jarara Cultural Centre is an integral part of how we share culture, build capacity and provide pastoral care for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students and their families.

Jarara Cultural Centre

Jarara Cultural Centre Video Catholic Schools Parramatta Diocese Ltd
We believe that all cultural differences are to be valued and are a rich resource to learn from.

An appreciation of these differences is fundamental to building relationships. We also believe that high self esteem and sense of identity are vital for the effective learning and personal growth of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students.

Cultural Workshops Jarara Cultural Centre Catholic Schools Parramatta Diocese

What can we help you with?

Student Learning Jarara Cultural Centre Catholic Schools Parramatta Diocese Ltd

Student Learning
Student Learning

  • Personalised Learning Plans for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students
  • cultural workshops
  • cross cultural curriculum planning
  • Aboriginal & Torres Strait Islander Student Leadership Program - Murama
Cultural Requests Jarara Cultural Centre Catholic Schools Parramatta Diocese Ltd

Cultural Requests
Cultural Requests

  • cultural competency school based projects (Mural, Yarning Circles etc)
  • consultation and cultural connection around student wellbeing
Teacher Professional Learning -Jarara Cultural Centre Catholic Schools Parramatta Diocese

Teacher Professional Learning
Teacher Professional Learning

  • Crossing Cultures Hidden Histories - Cultural Competency Training (6 hours total)
  • curriculum development
Smoking Ceremony Jarara Cultural Centre Catholic Schools Parramatta Diocese Ltd

Recommendations and Referrals
Recommendations and Referrals

  • Water Blessing
  • Welcome to Country
  • Aboriginal Spirituality consultation
  • Smoking Ceremony
  • Elder Invitation
  • Tools, technology and resources
  • Digital resources - LEX Library
  • Consultation and cultural connection facilities and environmental projects
Community Connections Jarara Cultural Centre Catholic Schools Parramatta Diocese Ltd

Community Connections
Community Connections

Jarara acts as the bridge connecting the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander and wider community, including to:

  • Aboriginal Elders
  • Baabayn Aboriginal Corporationdee
  • Kildare Medical Centre (dedicated Aboriginal medical service)
  • Muru Mittigar (Aboriginal Cultural and Education Centre)
  • Bangarra Dance Theatre
  • The Healing Foundation
  • Dalmarri Indigenous Organisation

Request a service

Connect with the Jarara team today to discuss how we may be able to support your family or school. Call (02) 9840 5672 or email us today.

Send us a message

Request a service

Contact the Jarara Cultural Centre at Catholic Schools Parramatta Diocese Ltd

Learning in action See more

Jarara Gallery See more

Acknowledgement of Country

We acknowledge, and pay respect, to the Traditional Owners and custodians of the land.

CSNSW Statement

Catholic education is committed to maximising learning opportunities for all indigenous peoples.

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