Whitefriars Catholic College for Boys

As a contemplative learning community, we are dedicated to deepening our understanding of First Peoples and Torres Strait Islander peoples ongoing cultures, spirituality and heritage. This understanding will enable us to fully appreciate and acknowledge the continuing achievements and contributions of First Peoples and Torres Strait Islander peoples. We are committed to acknowledging and learning from the injustices of the past and their lasting impacts, embracing the journey of truth-telling and education. This commitment will empower all students to contribute to broader reconciliation efforts, focused on justice, healing and closing the gap of equity and equality. 

Our vision for reconciliation also prioritises the development of a culturally safe community, built through trust, care and respect. We will establish authentic relationships with the Wurundjeri Woi-wurrung community and ensure the equitable participation of First Peoples and Torres Strait Islander members of our community in all facets of school life. To build an inclusive community we will dismantle inequity, combat racism and proudly recognise First Peoples and Torres Strait Islander peoples cultures as a vital part of our shared national identity. 

We further envision reconciliation through our commitment to service, understanding that decisive action must accompany reflection and education. Reconciliation efforts within the broader community will be supported by creating space for reflection, dialogue and action. In addition, we will develop a culture of advocacy, where responsibility for reconciliation is distributed widely and embedded in our organisational structures. 

Reconciliation is not a linear or finite venture, but an ongoing endeavour that Whitefriars College is committed to continually renew. 

We recognise the privilege of learning and working on the lands of the Wurundjeri Woi-wurrung people and are grateful for their enduring contributions to education for over 60,000 years. Their extensive knowledge and practices continue to guide and inspire us as we develop an educational community that values diversity, pursues justice and respects traditional wisdom. 

The Whitefriars community is committed to honouring these contributions along with the heritage, culture and knowledge of the Wurundjeri Woi-wurrung people as we commit ourselves to the journey of reconciliation.