A new Aboriginal Education Room and Community Hub was officially opened at Burton Primary School on Friday 27 May to coincide with the start of National Reconciliation Week (27 May to 3 June).

Affectionately known as ‘The Hive’, the rooms were developed in response to feedback from parents who felt disconnected from the school during the COVID restrictions.

The school wanted to create a welcoming space where parents know they can come for a variety of needs.

The rooms will house specialist teams, parent drop-in times, baby and toddler sessions, English lessons, and first aid.

“We all know that educating children is not something that schools do on their own,” said Department for Education Chief Executive Martin Westwell, who attended the official opening.

“It is a team effort between students, teachers and support staff and parents and families.

“The Hive will provide a space for the wider school community to come together to share ideas, learn and support each other.

“The Hive will only further strengthen the connections Burton Primary School has with their community.”

The space is governed by a parent committee and will respond to community suggestions, feedback and possibilities.

It will also operate in connection with Salisbury Council, who are currently rebuilding their community hub.

The Aboriginal Education room forms an important part of the school’s Reconciliation Action plan.

It is a space used to celebrate and share Aboriginal culture, as well as being a base for our Aboriginal Education team, Aboriginal students and their families.