This term’s learning focus centred on Indonesian Independence Day, marking the 81st anniversary of 17 August 1945. Across both Yultiwirra and Wairoa students engaged in a variety sequence of cultural and language activities, deepening their understanding of Indonesia’s history, diversity and national identity.

Some of our class activities are outlined below:

Preschoolers had hands-on fun exploring Indonesia’s cultural diversity by wearing authentic traditional costumes and matching them with their regions of origin. Trying on the costumes prompted some highly imaginative conversations about how it felt to “transform” into someone from another place, encouraging reflection on ‘difference and similarity’, including how people celebrate important events such as their national day.

Most classes watched the excellent SBS documentary, ‘The Spice Story’, which introduced students to the early European spice trade and subsequent colonisation of Indonesia. Students learned and sang the Indonesian National Anthem, later unpacking key vocabulary and discussing how these ideas are reflected in modern Indonesian society.

Cycles 1, 2 and Year 7 students focussed on the national motto ‘Bhinneka Tunggal Ika’ (Unity in Diversity), a very topical issue they could also relate to as Australians. Cycle 1 reinforced their growing social and language skills through vocabulary games, songs and simple reading tasks, with some students independently extending their learning through interactive online activities.

Cycle 2s learned the meaning behind the colours of the Indonesian flag, comparing it with symbolism seen in other national flags, including our own. They then designed their own flags, explaining their choices in Indonesian.

Cycle 3s focused on the Indonesian Coat of Arms, investigating the symbolism of each element and considering how the nation’s values are represented visually through it. Students designed their own, personal Coat of Arms expressing their identities, values and communities, once again describing their decisions in Indonesian.

Some of Christine’s class extended their cultural learning by working in small groups to prepare Indonesian dishes to share with classmates. And, without even realising it, learned a valuable lesson in how sharing food and cuisine can unite and centre a diverse community – even one of 250 million, like Indonesia!

Cycle 4s explored the history of the official Indonesian language through inquiry‑based questions to guide deeper research. Students strengthened their translation skills through dictionary work and grammar practice, focusing on accuracy, context and meaning.

This term’s learning invited students to explore culture, identity and community with curiosity and respect. We look forward to building on these experiences next term.