First Nations history: The National Trust is here to help

Schools have until early 2026 to integrate a more robust focus on Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander histories and cultures in their history curricula, and assistance has come from an unexpected source.

The National Trust, previously associated with the preservation of historic buildings and monuments more than education, is offering a ‘unique, place-based learning approach’ to provide ‘meaningful, tactile learning experiences, allowing students to connect abstract curriculum points to real-world locations and events’.

Nicola Dziadkiewicz, Education and Public Programs Manager at the National Trust Victoria (NTAV), says her organisation’s offerings ‘allow students to walk in the footsteps of those who shaped these sites’.

All NTAV programs have been developed with close consultation with its Aboriginal Advisory Committee, in line with the organisation’s Reconciliation Action Plan.

‘We work continuously with First Nations groups, ensuring that each program is both accurate and culturally sensitive,’ Nicola says.

‘Resources provided to teachers also undergo a rigorous review, ensuring that pre- and post-excursion materials align with the new curriculum’s requirements. This hands-on approach helps teachers navigate challenging historical narratives with their students, presenting multiple perspectives in ways that are accessible and age appropriate.’

Excursions to historic properties, such as Polly Woodside and McCrae Homestead, are central to the NTAV offerings, and students can engage in activities at such sites that underscore key curriculum points.

‘Ultimately, everything we do has been designed to make the transition to the new curriculum smoother, offering support and guidance for educators as they work towards a more inclusive understanding of history in the classroom,’ Nicola says.

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The curriculum changes require teachers to introduce students to a wider spectrum of perspectives, including Indigenous histories, from the earliest times through colonisation, and the lived experiences of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities today.

Teachers are being encouraged to engage directly with local Indigenous groups, providing students with firsthand insights into First Nations history. This will enable students to appreciate diverse perspectives and develop critical thinking skills.

The NTAV programs look like a great option for educators undertaking the complex task of finding authentic, respectful resources and connections to Indigenous experts.