Introduction to Culture and Identity

Facilitated by Lainey Walker

“Australia is a vibrant, multicultural country. We are home to the world’s oldest continuous cultures - Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures - as well as people who identify with more than 270 ancestries. This cultural diversity is central to our national identity. It is important that young children in Australia today grow up with an appreciation and respect for the diversity of cultures, races and ethnicities that surround them” (Australian Human Rights Commission, 2016:4).   Culture is widely accepted as a fundamental element of one’s identity. Culturally inclusive practices within Outside School Hours Care contribute to children’s sense of identity, wellbeing, and belonging. However, how do we define “culture”? What does “culture” encompass, and who has culture? In order to support a strong sense of identity within OSHC children, we first must have a strong understanding of our own identities, worldviews and cultural perspectives. This session will prompt reflection regarding:

• How we define culture
• Identity work- What is my culture?
• The concept of “othering”

This session is recommended for all OSHC professionals at all career stages.

NQS: QA1, QA4, QA5, QA6