Plans to restrict the use of local Indigenous languages in Northern Territory schools are a backwards step, said the Australian Greens today.
“It is clear there is a huge amount of concern over English literacy in the Northern Territory, but we need to ensure there is a researched-based reason for any radical changes to the curriculum, particularly when it comes to language,” said Senator Rachel Siewert.
“What we need is evidence based policy that works towards creating better education methods for our children. We know that to engage kids with education, schools need to be accessible, culturally appropriate and meet kids’ needs. These changes don’t do this.”
“Evidence suggests that teaching in both Indigenous languages and English enables a more detailed and mature understanding of English and better engagement – as it allows children to learn based on already developed language skills,” said Senator Siewert.