ISC proudly hosts our Elders in Residence group here at the College to support our students and staff in building our cultural capabilities. Since 2016, our Elders have been visiting the college weekly to assist in class, at official ceremonies, working with teachers, and providing cultural advice to the College. Led by Elder Alf Joyce, our Elders are a trusted and valued presence in the College grounds. They are an integral part of our IVAAR program.
The IVAAR program is the curriculum delivered to class groups with the support and input of the Elders. The acronym IVAAR stands for Identity, Values, Attitude, Action and Reality; and teaches students they can identify their Identity and Values. which they can track through their Attitude and Actions as a way of explaining their Reality. We then ask them to question their reality and analyse if it is a true reflection of who they are and the values they hold. This semester-long program is delivered through a weekly timetabled lesson to approximately 20-25 indigenous students, both male and female aged between 12-14. Taught by our IVAAR staff and supported in the room by our Elders, students learn the value of IVAAR and the importance of realising their best self and achieving a quality education.
The program culminates in an on-Country excursion to the traditional rainforest lands of the Mamu people where they experience teaching by the Elders group, learn about traditional artefacts from the area and enjoy foods cooked by the Elders.
Our school community has been recognised in the Premier’s 2020 Queensland Reconciliation Awards