All In Together: Reflecting on Sorry Day and Reconciliation Week

To mark Sorry Day on Tuesday, 26 May and National Reconciliation Week (27 May–3 June), the Primary School girls explored this year’s theme, All In, and considered how we can all play a role in supporting reconciliation within our community. While the Secondary School celebrated National Reconciliation Week this week due to the examination period, the Primary School took the opportunity to engage in a range of learning experiences and activities throughout the week to deepen their understanding of reconciliation.

Through a range of hands-on activities and rich learning experiences, the girls explored First Nations histories, cultures and perspectives in meaningful and engaging ways. They explored the artwork created for the 2026 National Reconciliation Week poster by renowned Gumbaynggirr/Bundjalung artist Otis Hope Carey and participated in games that helped them better understand the importance of inclusion and shared responsibility. The girls also enjoyed reading books by First Nations authors and listening to music by First Nations artists. Ms Whitfeld even shared her experiences of working in an Art Centre in Arnhem Land, giving Stage 3 girls a valuable insight into First Nations art, culture and community.

Demonstrating the spirit of All In, Stage 2 and Stage 3 students came together on Thursday in the Lecture Theatre to participate in the Museums of History NSW and Parliament of NSW free virtual event, Reconciliation Through First Nations Languages. The event provided the girls with a valuable opportunity to learn more about the importance of preserving and celebrating First Nations languages and culture.

To end the week, classes discussed how SCEGGS demonstrates being ‘all in’ through everyday actions and learned about the significance of flying Australia’s three flags together as a symbol of unity, recognition and respect for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples. The week concluded with House Families, where the Year 6 leaders again spoke about the three National flags and what this represents. Each girl will come home with a small replica of the three flags flown at SCEGGS as a reminder of the importance of reconciliation and unity.

Through the week’s activities and discussions, the girls not only deepened their understanding of the importance of First Nations languages, culture and reconciliation, but also embraced what it means to be All In, learning how each person can contribute to a more respectful, inclusive and united community.

To read more about our school’s commitment to reconciliation, please see this booklet.

Kristy Williams
Primary Teacher – Science and Technology/Curriculum Co-ordinator