Goodstart Woodford

At Goodstart Woodford, reconciliation means fostering an environment where the richness of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures is respected, celebrated, and integrated into the fabric of our community. Our vision is to build strong, respectful relationships between all Australians and create opportunities for First Nations peoples to thrive.

Our journey towards reconciliation is ongoing and evolving. We are committed to deepening our understanding and appreciation of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander histories, cultures, and contributions through regular incorporation of First Nations perspectives into our curriculum. By establishing meaningful relationships with local Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities and listening to their voices, we strive for our initiatives to be authentic, relevant and impactful. 

A key focus of our reconciliation journey is embedding reciprocal relationships with local Elders. We actively seek opportunities to invite Elders into our centre to share their stories, knowledge, and cultural practices with children, families, and educators. In turn, we offer our support, respect, and acknowledgment of their ongoing role as knowledge holders and community leaders. These relationships are not one-off engagements, but part of a sustained, two-way dialogue built on trust, cultural safety, and mutual learning.

To build reconciliation, we provide ongoing professional development for staff to enhance their cultural awareness and responsiveness and actively celebrate significant cultural events. Additionally, we support equity and inclusion by advocating for opportunities that empower Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. Through these steps, we are dedicated to creating a future where reconciliation is a lived reality. By embracing this vision, Goodstart Woodford continues to contribute to a more just, equitable, and unified community and future for all.