Little Beacons Learning Centre is a finalist in the national Narragunnawali Awards 2023 for its outstanding commitment to reconciliation in education.

The Early Years centre, at Beaconhills College’s Berwick and Pakenham campuses, was the only Victorian finalist amongst six finalist schools and early learning services across Australia.

The Narragunnawali program recognises schools and services which champion reconciliation and foster a high level of knowledge and pride in Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander histories, cultures and contributions.

Finalists were chosen by a judging panel of eminent First Nationals educationalists, who considered criteria such as use of local Aboriginal languages, embedding histories and cultures into the curriculum and the strong relationships with local Elders and communities.

Head of Little Beacons, Vicki Reid, said Little Beacons’ commitment to leading reconciliation was authentic, and had developed across many years with a clear vision of what could be achieved.

“Our commitment has led others to reflect and review practices and have inspired many to begin their own reconciliation journey,” she said.

“We are passionate about making a real difference and understanding the importance of a collaborative community approach.”

Ms Reid said Little Beacons proudly launched its first Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP) in 2016, an important step which publicly recognised the centre’s commitment to actions set out in the RAP.

“Little Beacons is part of the movement to build reconciliation through strength and respect and create opportunities for children, families and community.”

The Narragunnawali Awards judging panel will now visit the three finalists in the Early Learning category to choose a winner, to be revealed at an awards ceremony in Canberra on Friday 24 November.