Delving deep into a close study of the novel ‘Follow The Rabbit Proof Fence’ by Aboriginal writer, Doris Pilkington/Nugi Gurimura, the Class 8s are developing their understanding of the Stolen Generation. Gurimura’s story, based on the real life events of her mother, tracks three adolescent girls as they escape the government mission at Moore River Settlement and walk home to Jigalong in the East Pilbarra, following the Rabbit Proof Fence.

A timely sequencing of learning, following the recent National NAIDOC celebrations, students have been compassionately engaging with narrative, poetry, song and historical research to empathise and connect with Indigenous Australian history and the experiences of Aboriginal people since invasion.

Their level of maturity and respect for Aboriginal culture and atrocities committed towards Aboriginal people reflects a strong sense of morality and social justice. Students’ social and emotional development is becoming increasingly awake and aware to the complexities of identity and the role of education in becoming active Australian citizens.

Rachael Brown

Relief Humanities Teacher