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Minister Scullion visits Gunbalanya on the first day of school

17 March 2015
Children and Schooling
An Indigenous woman ringing a bell in foreground with three people behind her.

Minister for Indigenous Affairs, Nigel Scullion was on hand to assist the School Attendance Officers at Gunbalanya on the first day of the school term.

In Gunbalanya, West Arnhem Land, the school term started three weeks earlier than other Northern Territory Government schools, making it the first Australian school to start back in 2015.

The community decided that an earlier start date would help to boost school attendance, as it allows families and students to make the most of seasonal weather conditions and meet their cultural obligations.

Minister for Indigenous Affairs, Nigel Scullion, was on hand to assist local School Attendance Officers with the morning school bus run to make sure children made their first day back.

“I congratulate the school on its efforts to improve school attendance and for setting a positive example for other schools starting the new school year,” Minister Scullion said.

Improving school attendance is a community effort and Minister Scullion saw firsthand how the local school attendance team works with the school, parents, teachers and organisations to promote the message of school attendance throughout the community.

Co-Principal Esther Djayhgurrnga agrees that with a good education, children have better opportunities to pursue their goals and get a good job.

“These days it’s very important for future generations to get a good education so that they can enter the workforce and also survive in both worlds,” Esther said.

Co-Principal Susan Trimble said that learning is a two way process.

“It’s not just about kid’s business it’s all about families,” Susan said.

The School Attendance Officers work with the community to improve school attendance rates, as part of the Remote School Attendance Strategy.

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Find out more

A good education is essential for a good future. Getting children to school, improving education outcomes and supporting families to give their children the best start in life is a major priority for the Australian Government.

The Remote School Attendance Strategy is about working together with schools, families and community organisations to ensure all children go to school every day.