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Strengthening cultural identity by Learning on Country

16th January, 2025

On Yolŋu Country in North-East Arnhem Land, the students from Yirrkala Bilingual School have a unique curriculum that values language, culture and identity, brought to life through the Learning on Country program, the Yolŋu way of life. 

The Learning on Country program is led by Senior Yolŋu Elders, rangers and teachers. In Learning on Country activities, students have the opportunity to leave the classroom, venturing on Country for single or multi-day events, where cultural themes, skills and knowledge are shared. Intergenerational knowledge is passed on to the younger generations to support cultural identity and enhance wellbeing, while meeting curriculum requirements and other vocational outcomes.

For Yirrkala School students, Learning on Country activities take place weekly, and are attended by students from both Primary and Secondary school. These activities focus on rich, Yolŋu cultural learning including seasonal calendar indicators, language, manikay (song lines), buŋgul (ceremonial dances) and environmental activities.

Cotton On Foundation is proud to partner with both Dhimurru Aboriginal Corporation and Yirrkala School, supporting facilitation of Learning on Country Galtha workshops and other related activities.

In total, 122 students participated in Semester 1 Learning On Country activities in 2024, delivered by 34 Elders.

Highlights from Semester 1, 2024:

  • Ŋuykal Class Manaŋgaymi Camp – Year 3-5 class went on their first ever Learning on Country camp!
  • Djeṯ Story Camp – Ḏamala Class (Year 6-7) travelled to Yilpara on a camp to learn more about the Djeṯ Dhawu (Juvenile Sea Eagle story) with Bäniyala School and community.
  • Gudurrku class (Year 8-9) and Dhamiliŋu Class (Year 10-12) are working on units towards their Cert II and III in Conservation and Ecosystem Management.
  • The Maritime Program commenced this year for students from Year 9-12, working towards their Cert I in Maritime Operations.
  • Gäṉgaṉ Clan Language Galtha Rom Workshop – this four-day workshop was focused on students’ own clan languages to ensure their strong continuation.