RECONCILIATION
Walking together in justice and hope.
Acknowledging the First Nations
We acknowledge the Whadjuk people of the Noongar nation as the traditional custodians of the land on which our College stands, and we honour their enduring spiritual connection to this place.
Our vision for reconciliation is a just, inclusive, and harmonious society, where the rights, cultures, and contributions of First Nations peoples are respected, celebrated, and integrated into all aspects of our community. Inspired by our motto, Seek Justice, we are committed to building right relationships, fostering understanding, and walking together towards healing and unity.
WALKING TOGETHER
At John XXIII College, reconciliation is a journey that calls us to listen, learn, reflect, and act. We are dedicated to danjoo koorliny – walking together – with First Nations peoples, nurturing a spirit of understanding and unity, and ensuring that reconciliation is a lived reality for every member of our community.
RECONCILIATION IN THE CURRICULUM
Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander histories, cultures, and perspectives are thoughtfully integrated across all year levels and subject areas from Pre-Kindergarten to Year 12. Students engage with Indigenous stories, literature, art, and music alongside the concept, history, and progress of reconciliation in Australia. Dedicated units in Humanities and Social Sciences, English, Politics and Law, and Religion build a deep understanding of First Nations experiences and contributions.
Targeted learning opportunities strengthen knowledge of Noongar culture and local heritage. National days such as Reconciliation Week and NAIDOC Week are marked with assemblies, liturgies, and community events that embed respect in our school culture.
STAFF PROFESSIONAL LEARNING
Staff engage in professional learning to deepen their knowledge of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures, strengthen cultural awareness and understand the College’s commitment to reconciliation.
Our Reconciliation Action Plan Working Group – comprising staff, students, and community representatives – meets regularly to drive and monitor progress.
ENGAGING WITH ELDERS AND COMMUNITY
We build relationships with local Elders, Traditional Owners, and Indigenous community members, inviting them to share knowledge at College events. Guest speakers, artists, and storytellers enrich our learning, while students participate in cultural activities including Indigenous art projects and storytelling sessions.
Our connection to place is honoured through visible symbols: Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander flags, permanent Acknowledgement plaques, and Indigenous artworks throughout our campus.
YEAR 11 PILGRIMAGE
A JOURNEY OF FAITH, CULTURE AND SERVICE
Each year, Year 11 students are invited to apply for our Pilgrimage Program – a transformative journey that brings faith to life through cultural immersion, and reflection. The pilgrimage is an invitation to encounter diverse communities, question assumptions, and deepen understanding of God, self, and others.
Recent pilgrimages have taken students to Cape York, where they are welcomed by Traditional Owners and encounter the world's oldest living cultures. Students participate in traditional craft workshops, bushwalks to sacred sites, and shared meals with local communities – experiences that foster empathy, respect, and genuine appreciation for Australia's First Nations heritage.
This journey expresses our College motto, Seek Justice. By walking alongside others, listening deeply to their stories and engaging thoughtfully with issues of justice, students come to understand that meaningful change often begins with self-awareness, relationships and commitment. The program supports our commitment to reconciliation, as students engage directly with Traditional Owners and contribute to building a more just and understanding society.
‘The Pilgrimage Program teaches you to question your conscience and open your mind to different ways of thinking and more considered ways of communication.’
Year 11 pilgrim
RECONCILIATION ARTWORK: A NEW LEGACY
In a meaningful step towards reconciliation and cultural appreciation, John XXIII College commissioned respected Noongar artist Mel Spillman (Woods) from Maarakool Art to create a new artwork for the reception of our administration building. This collaborative project involved our Year 12 ATAR Visual Arts students, who contributed ideas and learned cultural art techniques directly from the artist. The artwork brings together our College's identity, history, and values with Noongar artistry – creating a visual legacy that welcomes all who enter. It stands as a symbol of our ongoing journey: honouring the past, celebrating the present, and inspiring a future of unity and respect.
OUR CONNECTION TO MOORO AND THE LAND
Our College is situated off Mooro Drive in Mount Claremont – named for the local Mooro people who have cared for this land for thousands of years. We recognise the deep, ongoing relationship of the Whadjuk Noongar people with this Country, and we are committed to learning from and with them.
Our campus celebrates native flora and fauna, with the Sustainability Club's revegetation efforts reflecting our respect for the land and its traditional custodians. The Koolyangarra Dove sculpture – meaning 'meeting place of happy children' – and other campus landmarks honour both our Catholic heritage and our connection to local Aboriginal culture.
LIVED ACTIONS BEYOND THE CLASSROOM
We support Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander-owned businesses and promote supplier diversity across our operations. Our policies and practices are regularly reviewed for inclusivity and respect, and we share our commitment through newsletters, social media, and community gatherings. Reconciliation at John XXIII College is the ongoing work of a community committed to justice, understanding, and unity.
Keep Exploring About Us
