Children's Ground

The CGA emphasizes the importance of prioritising language and culture as keys to early learning, health, economic development and wellbeing. The CG Approach is based on the First Nations system of life, learning and society, called Apmerengentyele (from the land) in Arrernte (Central Australian First Language). The CG Approach has an integrated service platform that focuses on prevention and early intervention, responding to social and cultural determinants of health and wellbeing. This includes learning, health, governance, and economic and community development - all of which are culturally centred and include western knowledge and skills.

Funding through the SPIRIT global partnership assists Children's Ground to deliver early years learning and maternal and child health activities in significant cultural locations (on country) and community spaces, led by cultural knowledge holders and local community members. Early years sessions are culturally centred, play-based learning environments that integrate cultural learning and health alongside western learning and health practice, bringing traditional knowledges together with contemporary practice and evidence.

The presence and role of family members in learning is vital to First Nations education. Sessions are based around intergenerational learning, and can have three or four generations of family present for learning together. Siblings teaching younger children, parents, grandparents, and great grandparents sharing language and culture.

During sessions, language immersion and cultural activities delivered on country, create space for families to uphold cultural authority, an opportunity often unable to be met through western learning systems.

Children’s Ground’s play-based learning approach creates an environment where children can heal, grow and learn through play.

SPIRIT funding is also supporting systems reform in First Nations led education through support and advocacy regards adoption of the recommendations of The M.K. Turner Report

One of the most powerful aspects of the SPIRIT program lies in its foundational principles, which reflect a deep commitment to First Nations leadership. These principles align well with the principles of the CGA.

The CGA is designed, implemented, and evaluated by First Nations people, ensuring cultural integrity and relevance at every stage. It acknowledges historical context and builds on the inherent strengths of individuals and communities, recognising that connection to culture is central to healing and growth for children and families. While across our partner countries our contexts differ, many of our struggles and our strengths are shared. Through SPIRIT it has been inspiring and motivating to see, hear and learn about community-led approaches to education, health, and healing around the world that are thriving and which reflect our own aspirations for our next generations.

This partnership offers a rare and valuable opportunity to learn from those who have walked this path before us. The knowledge shared is not only practical, but sacred, rooted in cultural lore and passed down over thousands of years. It is a privilege to be part of this collective, where relationships are grounded in mutual respect and a shared commitment to Indigenous futures. Ongoing collaboration with partners both within Australia and outside of it strengthens our network, our resilience and our resolve to continue. Building a world of play through SPIRIT is a commitment to community led solutions with cultural wisdom and connection as foundational to growth and wellbeing.