Celebrating Graduation for our ATAs

School News

November 5, 2024

St Mary’s College is thrilled to announce a significant achievement as three dedicated Aboriginal Teaching Assistants who successfully completed their Certificate IV in School-Based Education Support through the University of Notre Dame. They graduated alongside five other fabulous staff from our CEWA Kimberley schools. Congratulations Matilda Ogilvie Dia, Naranee McCarthy and Woora McClarty

This accomplishment is part of an impactful partnership with Catholic Education Western Australia, aimed at empowering Aboriginal educators and enhancing cultural awareness and education at our College to benefit all of our students and community. The journey was supported by CEWA’s commitment to professional development and educational equity, with the goal of building a more diverse and representative teaching workforce. We have such pride in these St Mary’s College staff, their dedication and commitment highlighted by a wonderful partnership with St Mary’s College, Notre Dame and CEWA.

The newly graduated Aboriginal teaching assistants bring invaluable cultural knowledge and insights to our College, enriching the educational experience for students and fostering an enhanced inclusive learning environment. The Certificate IV program provides them with advanced skills in classroom support, behaviour management, and student engagement, enabling them to make a profound impact on students’ academic and overall growth. Our Aboriginal Teaching Assistants have worked incredibly hard to earn their qualifications, and they are an inspiration to us all. This milestone not only benefits our college but also strengthens connections with our entire community.

The program aligns with St Mary’s commitment to fostering leadership and professional development opportunities for all staff, and our College looks forward to the ongoing contributions these graduates will make as they continue their careers in education. Our College is currently supporting two Aboriginal Teaching Assistants to complete their teaching degree and we look forward to commencing another group of approximately eight staff on their certificates very soon.

Congratulations once again. Their achievement marks another important step forward in building an inclusive, culturally rich learning environment at St Mary’s College.

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