Wellbeing Day: Cultural Safety and Awareness Day 2025

On Monday, 17th March, Urban College hosted a vibrant and educational Wellbeing Day, focusing on cultural awareness, safety, and community connection. This special event provided an opportunity for students and staff to deepen their understanding of cultural diversity while fostering a strong sense of belonging and respect.

The morning commenced with a cultural safety survey, designed to gauge students' prior knowledge, and set the stage for meaningful discussions. College Counsellor, Jen, introduced the theme of the day, setting clear expectations and encouraging open-mindedness. Aunty Julie and Rick Baldwin, esteemed Indigenous Elders, then welcomed everyone with a heartfelt Welcome to Country and Smoking Ceremony—a powerful moment that grounded the day in tradition and respect. Rick also shared his impressive collection of artifacts and traditional tools, giving students a hands-on glimpse into Indigenous heritage.

After a short break, students engaged in a series of rotating activities designed to celebrate different cultures and perspectives. From the intricate art of Origami, the vibrant expression of Celebration Art, to the lively challenge of Cultural Bingo, each activity encouraged creativity, collaboration, and cross-cultural appreciation.

Lunchtime brought a feast of international flavours at the Tasting Around the World event, held in the College Hub. Students delighted in sampling dishes from Germany, the UK, Greece, the Netherlands, Australian Bush Tucker and beyond. Meanwhile, Alisha, Rach, and Sabina shared pieces of their family histories, offering personal insights into their cultural backgrounds. Out on the oval, Suzi, James, and Em led an AFL activity, keeping energy levels high and emphasizing the role of sports in cultural exchange.

The afternoon featured an enriching session on Indigenous languages and Indigenous community, led by our Learning Assistant, Shae, a proud Kamilaroi woman. This presentation shed light on the beauty and significance of Indigenous languages, sparking curiosity and respect among students. Additionally, the “Where Are We From?” activity, facilitated by Alisha and Dana, invited students to reflect on their own cultural roots and share their unique stories with the group.

To conclude the day, a second cultural safety survey allowed students to reflect on their newfound knowledge and insights. This provided a meaningful moment of self-assessment, reinforcing the importance of cultural awareness in everyday life.

The success of this event was made possible by the enthusiasm and commitment of our incredible staff, volunteers, and students. Their participation and willingness to engage in meaningful conversations made this Wellbeing Day truly impactful. We look forward to continuing this journey in our Term 2 Wellbeing Day, building on the foundation of cultural safety and awareness to create an even more inclusive and connected community.