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Early learning centre Waja Guma opens at Baynton West Primary School

Alexander ScottPilbara News
Pilbara MLA Kevin Michel with Education Minister Sue Ellery, Marie Aquino and 18-month-old Connor Holthouse.
Camera IconPilbara MLA Kevin Michel with Education Minister Sue Ellery, Marie Aquino and 18-month-old Connor Holthouse. Credit: Supplied/Kevin Michel/Kevin Michel

A culturally connected early childhood learning centre run by the Baynton West Primary School has officially opened in Karratha.

Waja Guma, meaning ‘little children learning together’, was opened on July 26 in a ceremony that featured an acknowledgement of country by local students.

The centre will give children from birth to four years old in the Baynton, Millars Well and Nickol areas in Karratha a chance to share and learn about their culture through play, dance and art.

The idea for the culturally connected centre came about after a school survey identified the need for a purpose-designed early learning centre where Aboriginal families could meet their children to share knowledge and foster a positive relationship with education systems.

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The three-year pilot program — supported and funded by Rio Tinto — was developed in consultation with local Aboriginal families.

Regional executive director Cheryl Parkin, Aboriginal and Islander education officer Kylie Giddens, Aboriginal and Islander education officer Troy Baldwin, principal Lisa Ledger, Kevin Michel and Sue Ellery.
Camera IconRegional executive director Cheryl Parkin, Aboriginal and Islander education officer Kylie Giddens, Aboriginal and Islander education officer Troy Baldwin, principal Lisa Ledger, Kevin Michel and Sue Ellery. Credit: Alexander Scott/Pilbara News

Education and Training Minister Sue Ellery said the program aimed to help prepare Aboriginal children for success as they entered the school system.

“It will improve access to early education programs specifically designed for Aboriginal families residing in Millars Well, Baynton and Nickol and provide them with valuable educational support,” she said.

“The program has received a wonderful response from children and families alike and it’s great to see the community coming together to support each other.”

Pilbara MLA Kevin Michel said the centre was a fantastic initiative that would make a difference in the lives of local families and children.

“Baynton West Primary School already has fantastic connections within its local community and this program will build on those relationships, bringing families into the school early to ensure they feel included and part of the school community before children commence their formal education,” he said.

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