7. Aboriginal and Islander education workers
Overview
The role of the Aboriginal and Islander Education Worker (AIEW) is to provide assistance to classroom teachers and to carry out community liaison functions. The role typically includes curriculum development work and classroom management assistance. The AIEW also provides Indigenous language, literacy and cultural awareness activities within the school.
The community liaison role of the AIEW includes working with families, with community elders and the broader community. AIEW staff may perform duties that include translating or interpreting Aboriginal languages for school staff. They also provide English translations for Aboriginal community members.
AIEW staff are provided with on-the-job training. The requirements for the position involve knowledge of local languages and culture and ability to work with school children. The career structure for the AIEW includes four levels. Staff move from one level to the next at the recommendation of the school principal. Currently, AIEW staff are not covered by teacher unions. They do not enjoy the same salary levels and conditions as their qualified-teacher colleagues. In some states incentives such as study leave are provided to AIEW staff who want to become qualified teachers. Only the Catholic Education Office provides scholarships for AIEW staff working towards a teacher qualification.
Evidence to the Inquiry
Aboriginal and Islander Education Workers (AIEWs) and Home Liaison Officers are provided to all government high schools and larger primary schools. These staff establish and maintain vital links between the home and the school. They assist by visiting homes, and are able to involve other agencies to respond to families' needs. They assist in matters of medical and welfare problems. They also assist with problems related to school, lunches, clothing, books etc (Submission 26, NT Education Department).Last updated 2 December 2001.[It] is support through scholarships, HECS payments [that we can] get qualified Aboriginal people employed in the education system, both mainstream and independent (Submission 52, Yipirinya School, NT).
