As a school leader, you have the power to shape school culture, support teachers, and build meaningful relationships with First Nations communities. Your commitment to First Nations education influences the entire school, setting the standard for how it is embedded, prioritised, and sustained.
By leading with intention, you can create lasting change — ensuring First Nations education is integrated meaningfully across the school, every day of the year. Here’s how you can take action and strengthen First Nations education in your context as a school leader...
Please note that we use First Nations Education and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Education interchangeably throughout this blog.
Who Are School Leadership Staff?
Leadership positions vary across states and territories, but your role might include:
Principal or deputy principal
Assistant principal (NSW)
Stage/year level leader
Head teacher (secondary)
Early childhood director or service manager
For First Nations education to thrive in your school, you must demonstrate your commitment every day of the year. This means embedding it into school-wide planning, setting clear expectations for staff, and strengthening connections with community.
Prioritise First Nations Education in School Culture and Planning
First Nations education should be an integral part of your school’s strategic planning. Clearly defined goals ensure:
A shared commitment across the whole school
Accountability for progress
Visibility of First Nations education as a priority
When First Nations education is embedded in strategy, it sends a clear message: This is what we do here, this is what we value, and this is what we all contribute to.
Your leadership in this space makes it easier for staff to engage, knowing it is a supported and expected part of their practice.
Listening to First Nations Staff, Students and Community
Strong leadership includes listening to the voices that matter most. First Nations education should always be guided by First Nations voices, including:
First Nations staff within the school
First Nations students and their families
Local Elders and community members
Your role isn’t to control First Nations education — it’s to support it. This means making space for First Nations staff and community members to lead initiatives when they choose and ensuring self-determination is respected.
When you actively listen, engage, and create opportunities for collaboration, you strengthen relationships and build trust.
Active Involvement in First Nations Education Teams and Community Events
Your involvement in First Nations education teams and community events demonstrates your genuine commitment. In NSW, for example, attending AECG (Aboriginal Education Consultative Group) meetings is essential. These gatherings help you:
Learn who’s who in the local community
Understand community priorities, aspirations, and concerns
Build strong relationships that benefit your school
Being present in these spaces fosters trust. When Elders and community members see you attending consistently, they are more likely to engage, share their knowledge, and collaborate with your school.
Correctly Acknowledge Country
As a leader, you set the tone for how Acknowledgments of Country are delivered in your school. A meaningful Acknowledgment should:
Use the correct terminology
Refer to the specific Nation, Country, or community where your school is located
A generic Acknowledgment can signal a lack of knowledge if overused. By modelling thoughtful and accurate Acknowledgments, you encourage your staff and students to do the same.
Providing Time and Space for Professional Learning and Collaboration
One of the biggest challenges for teachers is feeling confident in embedding First Nations perspectives. You can make a difference by ensuring they have access to ongoing learning and collaboration opportunities.
Consider:
Providing regular learning sessions led by First Nations people
Encouraging attendance at workshops, conferences, and networking events
Allowing flexibility for staff to pursue relevant learning as it arises
This requires investment — funding, time, and planning — but it ensures First Nations education is seen as an essential part of teaching and learning, not an “extra.”
Your commitment to staff development directly impacts their confidence and ability to deliver meaningful First Nations education.
Leading by Example
As a leader, your actions influence how First Nations education is prioritised across the school. When you actively engage, advocate, and provide support, your staff are more likely to do the same. By leading with openness, reflection, and a willingness to learn, you create an environment where your entire school community feels encouraged to strengthen their understanding and practice.
First Nations education creates meaningful change that benefits all students, staff and society. Strong leadership makes all the difference.
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Did you know that our best-selling guidebook and planning tool Planning for Connection 2025 includes a First Nations Education Action List for teachers and leadership staff?
You can use this action list to guide, monitor, and reflect on your school’s progress across key areas, including:
Relationships
Learning Environment
Wellbeing and Culture
Teaching
Resources
Leadership
Employment
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