Berry Patch Preschool and Long Day Care Centre Greystanes

The educators at Berry Patch acknowledge and respect Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples; valuing their cultures, histories, heritages, and continuing contributions; and recognise them as the Traditional Custodians of the Lands across Australia on which early childhood services are offered. We believe that, as early childhood educators, it is crucial to acknowledge, and educate ourselves and young children about, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and cultures, respecting the oldest continuing cultures in human history. We will continue to establish and maintain trusting partnerships with families, children, and the wider Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander community so we have the foundations for respectfully embedding and demonstrating respect for the diversity of First Nations peoples, cultures, and perspectives. As educators, we strive to positively influence and educate current and future generations of Australians to create a socially equitable and equal Australia that is free from racism. We will embed inter-cultural understanding and respect for First Nations peoples and cultures into the service curriculum.  We will continue to establish and maintain respectful, reciprocal partnerships with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander community members and organisations to develop and deliver culturally responsive programs to children and families. We strive to provide quality learning experiences that are culturally safe, ensuring children have the best possible start to life and support the learning and development needs and desires for their future. Through this vision, we are teaching future generations to value and respect Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, cultures, heritages and continuing contributions; and to acknowledge the resilience and strength shown by Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. We believe that this will contribute to shaping a sense of shared identity and national unity.