Studio Schools of Australia (SSA) is dedicated to bringing innovative educational models to remote and very remote regions of Australia, with a focus on community-driven education for Indigenous students.
The Studio School model began 13 years ago at Yiramalay on Bunuba country, developed through a collaboration between the Bunuba people and Wesley College in Melbourne. This initiative was aimed at creating opportunities for students and families from both communities to come together and learn collaboratively.
The Manjali Studio School is located alongside the Indigenous Education and Research Centre (IERC), which is the key Centre of Excellence within the Indigenous educational framework. The IERC aims to enhance the unique teaching and learning model used in Studio Schools. It also serves as a collaborative space for both Indigenous and non-Indigenous educators to develop innovative educational strategies that promote knowledge and understanding for life. Grounded in attentive listening and enriched by content, culture, environments, and Indigenous knowledge systems, the IERC seeks to bridge ancient wisdom with contemporary insights.
The ethos of SSA’s approach is to emphasise a holistic learning approach, integrating academic, personal, and industry skills while prioritising culture, language, and identity for both students and local Indigenous communities.
DCWC personnel provided pro-bono and low-bono project management and superintendent services for both Manjali and the IERC. This $45 million initiative, funded by the Commonwealth Government, represents a transformative educational model for students in remote and very remote areas of Australia.
Manjali Studio School, SSA's second studio school, and the IERC are currently under construction on Bunuba country, near Kurrajong Yard. Opening to its first cohort of students in 2025, the school caters to students in years 7, 8 and 9. Drawing inspiration from local quartz rocks, the school aims to provide a culturally rich education in partnership with Yiramalay. Designed by Lyons Architects and built by Hutchies, the facility feature 87 modular rooms, utilising a prefabricated approach that significantly reduces construction costs compared to permanent structures. Manjali accommodates 96 students and up to 48 staff with boarding facilities.
Manjali Studio School represents a new beginning for Indigenous education in Australia, implementing a scalable approach for middle-year students and establishing a pathway to Yiramalay Studio School, which serves students in years 10, 11, and 12.
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