Middle Dural Public School is blessed to have a beautiful expanse of green space for students to learn and play. In the height of COVID, whilst students were learning how to learn remotely, the staff of MDPS undertook a project to bring a new place of belonging to our small, tight-knit school – a Yarning Circle, built by local landscaper Samscapes
Grounded in Aboriginal tradition as a place to build respectful relationships, our Yarning Circle is a place to talk, share, discuss, educate and have a yarn together. It’s also the perfect place to listen.
Nestled under the gum trees alongside the school’s Arbour, Middle Dural’s Yarning Circle is a well-respected, quiet area that the children use with their teachers to focus on key learning areas inspired by an indigenous perspective and participate in Circle Time.
“Our children respect the Yarning Circle as a place for learning, not play. Circle Time in the Yarning Circle is an opportunity for students to share their positive and negative experiences at school without interruption or judgement. Each student airs what’s bothering them and, as a group, problem solve to ensure Middle Dural Public School is a safe and welcoming place for all”, said MDPS Principal Mrs Mills.
In July, MDPS said ‘Warami mittigar’ to Darug Elder, Mr Chris Tobin. Chris came to celebrate and bless our Yarning Circle, and gave our children an unforgettable experience – a smoking ceremony.
After the ceremony, Chris played music with the children and taught them about indigenous culture. Everyone learnt how to make a whistle from a gum leaf, count in Oarug, and mix occhre paint. There was face painting, tree painting and an all-around unforgettable experience.
The ceremony was attended by Director of Education Leadership, Mr Adam Boulus, along with representatives from Landcare Australia and Woolworths Junior Landcare Grants, who funded part of the project.
This year our children said goodbye to Mrs Mac and welcomed Mrs Horrocks to the senior class, enjoyed soccer and tennis clinics, were spoiled with a delicious canteen menu, participated in Jollybops Science and learnt Japanese! The children will soon learn about native bees and their role in enhancing the environment from a local beekeeper. ‘Learn to Live’ is what Middle Dural does best.
2023 Kindy Orientation Day starts in October, with the Early Birds Program held throughout November. Call us on 02 9651 1761 to make a time to visit.
