Introduction
Before bringing Indigenous languages into your classroom, it’s important to acknowledge that Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people are the custodians of their language. We recommend teaching of your local language must happen in conjunction with the local language custodians. You can find notes to help teachers establish relationships with their local language groups on the First Languages Australia website. Teachers can also find further guidance on the Framework for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Languages on the Australian Curriculum website.
Where to start?
With close to 150 First Nations languages being spoken in Australia today, identifying the local language group your school or centre is geographically connected with is an essential place to start. You can use the Gambay Map compiled by First Languages Australia to find the relevant language and Community you will be learning from. The Gambay Map can also assist you in finding community language contacts and resources to help you design your learning experience.
Binabar Books home language is Yugambeh, spoken by the Yugambeh people of Beenleigh, Gold Coast and Beaudesert area of south east Queensland. We also have books published in Awabakal from the Newcastle region of New South Wales and Paakantji of the Darling River region of New South Wales, including Wilcannia, Menindi and Broken Hill. Should you be looking for resources for one of the many other Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander languages, you can contact the local language centre for your area to request a list of their recommended teaching resources. Additionally, our titles are designed to be published in any language and Binabar Books can work with the appropriate language custodians to arrange this.
Using our Resources
Binabar books have been designed as storytelling instruments that can be the foundation for a range of learning opportunities. Our products include not just books but also a suite of complementary resources that will support you in celebrating Indigenous languages with your students. Our resources include:
- Songs
- Lyrics and Chord Sheets
- Curriculum teachers notes
- Lyrics Posters (A2 size)
- Teaching game cards
These resources are aligned with national schools curriculum.
Engaging a Cultural Officer
Before commencing Indigenous studies of any kind at your institution, building a relationship with your local community or language group is essential to ensure the appropriate cultural protocols are followed. Engaging a Cultural Officer or representative from your local community to guide and deliver your learning experience ensures children are being taught the importance of respect for the custodians of First Nations language and culture.
To find a Cultural Officer for your area, you can contact your local language centre for advice.
A cultural officer uses a range of personal knowledge, experience and resources, as well as our books and music to bring our culture to life with students across Yugambeh Country.
Are you a Cultural Officer looking for resources?
Binabar Books would love to work with you. Contact us to discuss using our resources in your presentations as well as custom resource options to suit your needs.