TAFE NSW's innovative eight-week program, Our Story Time, is fostering a love for literacy among First Nations families in the Riverina region, helping to improve educational outcomes for Indigenous children.
The program supports the national Closing the Gap target, which aims to increase the school readiness of Indigenous children by enhancing their developmental skills, with a goal of reaching 55 per cent readiness by 2031.
Through a series of engaging activities like reading, art, and cooking, Our Story Time equips families with tools to nurture early literacy skills. For parents like Gabby Hughes, a mother of three from Wagga Wagga, the program has been transformative.
After participating twice, she shared how it helped her connect with her children and reignite her passion for reading with them.
"It's easy to let life get busy and miss out on this important time with our kids," said Ms Hughes.
"Having access to quality books and materials motivates me to set aside the time to read and engage with my children."
The program encourages parents to involve their children in reading by offering simple strategies, such as discussing the stories together. Participants are also given Indigenous-themed books, which help honour their cultural heritage while fostering a love of reading at home.
For Ms Hughes, these moments with her children have been meaningful, not only improving her children's interest in reading but also strengthening their bond.
TAFE NSW Head Teacher Karen Ward emphasised how the program not only enhances children's literacy skills but also models good literacy practices for parents. It helps boost adult literacy, which in turn creates a supportive environment for children's learning.
The program aims to integrate literacy into daily family life, opening doors to better educational experiences and even potential career opportunities for parents.
By creating a foundation of literacy within family units, Our Story Time is sparking a lifelong love of learning and ensuring brighter futures for Indigenous children.
