Jaxon Wright Artwork Presentation, 2024

 

First Nations Program at Seton

 
 

Seton Catholic College is committed to fostering a supportive and inclusive environment for our First Nations students. Our initiatives include:

 

Academic & Leadership Support

  • A session that begins with shared food and a yarn before moving into academic support.

  • Opportunities for First Nations students to take on leadership within the College.

  • The College First Nations Liaison Officer, Miss Erin Priest-Bryant, works to establish strong links between First Nations families, First Nations students and College staff. In this capacity Miss Priest-Bryant shares the responsibilities related to the teaching and learning process of all First Nations students.

    This includes counselling and mentoring the students, providing cultural advice as required, supporting literacy and numeracy programs and acting as a role model for the students.

NAIDOC Week Student Performance @ Christ The King, 2024

Cultural Spaces & Representation

  • A firepit and Yarning Circle for smoking ceremonies and reflection, alongside buildings with Noongar names, such as Wanjoo Room, Mereny Maya Café, and Ngalla Maya Student Centre.

  • Staff wear a First Nations-designed Seton shirt (from the company Yarn), with a special edition designed by a First Nations student for the Senior Leadership Team. Student-created artwork, often in collaboration with external First Nations artists, is featured throughout the College, including on water fountains and in the Principal’s Office.

  • Our College newsletters feature the Noongar Seasons, educating the wider community about this important aspect of Noongar culture.

First Nations Graduation Cap, 2024

Cultural Education & Immersion

  • Programs uniting First Nations and non-First Nations students through shared journeys, connecting to Country and learning from Elders.
    Includes:
    i) A three-day, two-night camp at Baden Powell Campground and Lane Poole in Dwellingup (Years 8–10).
    ii) A six-day, five-night Broome Cultural Immersion, offering students authentic experiences and deep connections to Country.

  • A dedicated off-campus day for First Nations students to connect, yarn, and strengthen cultural bonds through team-building and cultural activities, with inclusive participation from non-First Nations students who are active in related programs.

First Nations Camp - Shared Path, 2025

Cultural Acknowledgement & Celebrations

  • Immersive workshops, guest speakers, classroom activities, and inclusive whole-school events for NAIDOC Week. Educational activities and symbolic recognition through the native hibiscus for Sorry Day.

  • A unique College Acknowledgement developed in consultation with local Elder Neta Knapp, incorporating scripture.

  • Includes a family morning tea with Elders and a Year 12 graduation celebration for families of graduating First Nations students. Ongoing relationships with local Elders provide cultural guidance and advice.

Broome & Lombadina Cultural Tour, 2024

Access & Opportunity

  • A key goal in our School Improvement Plan is to increase First Nations enrolment.

  • Two scholarships offered annually, covering tuition fees, subject to availability in the relevant year group. View our Scholarships here

  • Specialised tours offered to prospective First Nations families.

 

These initiatives reflect Seton’s deep respect for and commitment to First Nations culture, education, and community. Our approach is an ongoing, lived experience that is embedded in everyday life at Seton.

For more information about our First Nations Program, contact Miss Priest-Bryant via our College Administration on (08) 9331 9600, or by email.

 

First Nations Education at Seton

Each learning area plays a vital role in deepening students’ understanding and respect for First Nations peoples. Through curriculum connections, students engage with First Nations culture, history and perspectives - learning about traditions, stories and the enduring connection to Country in meaningful and relevant ways.