A vital step in the future success of the students of Yipirinya School was taken last week with the handing back of control of the school to Aboriginal leaders.

The newly-formed Yipirinya School Council met for the first time in two years after a period of statutory management ended.

With two representatives from each of the language groups taught (Warlpiri, Central Arrernte, Western Aranda and Luritja) the council members are strong community leaders with long-term ties to the school, with some being previous students and relatives of founding members.

Council Chair, Central Arrernte man, Patrick Nandy, feels strongly motivated to inspire students.

"In the last 12 months we've seen lots more kids going to school which has been good to see," he said.

"I want to help Yipirinya grow more and inspire the kids to do more."

Mr Nandy's view is consistent with the school's mission "to provide quality education to the children of the Aboriginal families in Alice Springs and surrounds so that they are equipped with what they need to live position and fulfilling lives".

Yipirinya School is community led and strives to deliver "accessible, relevant, captivating, and inspiring education". 65% of the school staff are Aboriginal and with the school council back on board, this Indigenous-led centre of learning has a bright future.

Western Aranda council representative Sarah Mangaraka is delighted Yipirinya is here for the kids in Alice Springs.

"I want to be part of the Council so we can keep giving the kids opportunities to learn and grow," she said.

The school maintains and teachers Aboriginal culture and identity through language and cultural activities including weekly learning on country days, in addition to the Australian curriculum.

Yipirinya School also offers culturally appropriate support in the Happy Heart Hub to "break down some of the barriers the students face", as well as numerous activities outside school hours through the Sunset School.

The school prizes strong Aboriginal leadership and good governance, and school council members have completed the Aboriginal Governance and Management Program with the Aboriginal Peak Organisations Northern Territory (APONT).

The program included understanding the role and responsibility of a board and how to be strong and effective leaders.

Principal Gavin Morris said he is looking forward to working with the council for the benefit of the students, and Alice Springs community as a whole.

"This will result in sustainability, excellence and long term positive outcomes," he said.

In a statement, the school said community controlled education is the way to "create a bright future for Aboriginal kids in Alice Springs, and strong leadership and role models is vital".