First Peoples Principles of Learning
Discover the foundational principles that guide Indigenous education and how they shape learning in our Sunshine Coast schools. Learn about their importance and my commitment as a Trustee.
Understanding the principles
The First Peoples Principles of Learning are a framework that helps us understand and integrate Indigenous ways of knowing and learning into our education system. These principles emphasize a holistic approach to education, recognizing that learning supports the well-being of the self, family, community, land, spirits, and ancestors. They are reflective, experiential, and relational, focusing on interconnectedness and a deep sense of place.
Key principles include:
- Learning ultimately supports the well-being of the self, the family, the community, the land, the spirits, and the ancestors.
- Learning is holistic, reflexive, reflective, experiential, and relational (focused on connectedness, on reciprocal relationships, and a sense of place).
- Learning involves recognizing the consequences of one‘s actions.
- Learning involves generational roles and responsibilities.
- Learning recognizes the role of Indigenous knowledge.
- Learning is embedded in memory, history, and story.
- Learning involves patience and time.
- Learning requires exploration of one‘s identity.
- Learning involves recognizing that some knowledge is sacred and only shared with permission and/or in certain situations.
While these principles do not capture the full breadth of varied teaching and learning approaches within First Nations societies, they identify common elements crucial for fostering a respectful and inclusive learning environment.
My personal connection and commitment
For many years, my connection with the shishálh nation and the Sḵwx̱wú7mesh Úxwumixw has deeply shaped my understanding and appreciation of the First Peoples Principles of Learning. Through developing friendships, building trust, and engaging in compassionate, collaborative work, I have been privileged to learn from their teachings and ways of knowing.
These experiences have instilled in me a profound respect for Indigenous knowledge and practices. As a Trustee, I believe these principles are not just guidelines but essential values that enrich our schools and communities on the Sunshine Coast. They help us foster environments where every student feels a sense of belonging, purpose, and connection to their heritage and to the land.
Upholding these principles in our schools
As a Trustee, I am dedicated to actively supporting and integrating the First Peoples Principles of Learning within our school district. In collaboration and consultation with our Strategic Plan, we uphold these principles to the highest degree of importance. This means working in genuine partnership with the shishalh nation and the Sḵwx̱wú7mesh Úxwumixw to ensure that Indigenous perspectives are meaningfully incorporated into our curriculum, policies, and daily school life.
Our commitment ensures that all students benefit from an education that respects and reflects the rich cultural heritage of the First Peoples, promoting a more inclusive, understanding, and holistic learning experience for everyone on the Sunshine Coast, BC
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