Embracing First Nations culture with a traditional Smoking Ceremony

Our students came together today to honour the rich history and culture of Australia’s First Nations people with our first ever Smoking Ceremony led by local Aboriginal custodian Derek Nannup.

The ceremony, held as part of our NAIDOC Week celebrations, was a powerful and meaningful experience for both our Junior School and Senior School students.

The smoking ceremony, a traditional Aboriginal practice, involves the burning of native plants to produce smoke that is believed to have cleansing and healing properties.

Derek also shared his knowledge and wisdom with our students, explaining the importance of acknowledging and respecting the culture and traditions of Australia’s First Nations people.

St James’ is committed to promoting reconciliation and developing a greater understanding and respect for Australia’s First Nations people, and events like today’s ceremony play an important role in achieving that goal.

School News

Scroll to Top

Term Dates

Student Dates
Term 1, 2024
Tuesday 30 January – Students commence
Thursday 28 March – End of Term 1
Term 2, 2024
Tuesday 16 April – Students commence
Friday 21 June – End of Term 2
Term 3, 2024
Monday 15 July – Students commence
Friday 20 September – End of Term 3
Term 4, 2024
Monday 7 October – Students commence
Tuesday 3 December – End of Term 4
Student Dates
Term 1, 2025
Monday 3 February – Students commence
Friday 11 April – End of Term 1
Term 2, 2025
Tuesday 29 April – Students commence
Friday 27 June – End of Term 2
Term 3, 2025
Monday 21 July – Students commence
Friday 26 September – End of Term 3
Term 4, 2025
Monday 13 October – Students commence
Tuesday 9 December – End of Term 4