What Was the Purpose of the Visit?
The visit to WA Museum Boola Bardip was designed to help students build a stronger understanding of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander histories, cultures, and connections to land, sea and family.
This experience was directly linked to a module within the CHC40221 Certificate IV in School Based Education Support, which is a Fee-Free, government-funded qualification. The excursion provided a valuable opportunity for students to reinforce their classroom learning through real-world engagement.
How the Visit Supported Student Learning
During the visit, students actively engaged with a range of exhibits, multimedia displays and videos that explore the cultural heritage of Aboriginal people in Western Australia.
Students also interacted with Museum staff, including Noongar people, who generously shared their stories, knowledge and lived experiences. These interactions helped bring learning to life and supported students to develop a more meaningful understanding of Aboriginal perspectives and ways of life.
Connecting Learning to Future Careers
A highlight for many students was the opportunity to meet WA State Premier Roger Cook, who was visiting the Museum for a separate purpose.
Mr Cook took time to speak with students, take selfies, and listen to their positive learning experiences at Gateway Training Academy. He also discussed government funding initiatives within the vocational education and training sector, including Fee-Free courses.
Students shared their excitement about becoming school-based educators upon successful completion of their qualification and the important role they hope to play in supporting students within school communities.
Why Experiences Like This Matter
Community-based learning experiences play an important role in preparing students for real workplaces. For those studying School Based Education Support, developing cultural understanding and awareness is essential when working with diverse student populations.
By linking excursions directly to course modules, Gateway Training Academy ensures students are not only gaining knowledge, but also building confidence, empathy and practical understanding they can carry into their future roles.
Ready to Learn More?
If you would like to learn more about the Certificate IV in School Based Education Support, including how this Fee-Free qualification prepares students for real school environments, visit our course page or get in touch with our team.
The visit was also referenced in coverage by The West Australian during the WA State Premier’s visit to the Museum.