The impact of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander educators

Key messages:

1. Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander educators bring valuable community and cultural knowledge to education settings, particularly in remote communities.
2. Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander educators provide continuity for student learning in schools that may face high teacher turnover, particularly in remote schools.
3. School leaders can ensure schools are culturally safe environments for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander staff.
4. The staffing of remote schools requires policies that consider the skills and knowledge needed for education in that context.

Introduction/why read:

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander educators play a significant role in the communities in which they live and work due to their deep understanding of local context, languages, histories and cultures. Their contribution is particularly important in schools with high proportions of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students, and in remote and very remote settings.

This Spotlight research report explores the impact of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander educators on student learning, school continuity and culturally responsive practice. It highlights how these educators work alongside classroom teachers to support learning, strengthen community connections and provide a stable presence in schools that experience high staff turnover.

Written in consultation with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, this Spotlight supports school leaders and teachers to better understand the value of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander educators and the conditions needed to ensure culturally safe, effective and sustainable education settings.