Awards honour best indigenous students

South Hedland Primary’s best indigenous students were celebrated last week for their contribution to the after school learning club.

The Graham Farmer Foundation, in partnership with SH primary, last week recognised students across a range of award categories, with Jilleeha Riley taking out the leadership award, Mahtikha Whitehurst the citizenship award and Rhaden Wardi the endeavour award.

The program was free for students, ran two days a week after the regular school day finished, and was aimed at increasing communication and STEM skills for indigenous children.

Principal Daryl Mansfield said the school was extremely fortunate to receive the support from the sponsors.

“The program promotes engagement academic performance, co-operation, leadership and critical thinking skills,” he said.

“It has been embraced by our school, providing many students from years 1 to 6 the opportunity to participate in a number of educational activities.

Learning club co-ordinator Deanna Hoffman said the program was an important part of involving indigenous students.

“The club provides all involved a sense of belonging and pride as they are part of such an enriching and fulfilling program,” she said.

“Many children have improved their attendance, resilience, social engagement and emotional wellbeing since being part of the learning club. It would not be the success it has been without the ongoing support of our families and staff who contin-ually encourage their children to commit to attending in pursuit of improved personal and learning outcomes.”

The sessions start with an afternoon snack, catch-up and informal debrief on the student’s school day with staff, and then move on to completing a range of activities.