Loren Wareing
Indulkana Anangu School, SA
Yankunytjatjara
Early Career Teacher
Many schools have successfully integrated Aboriginal knowledge and traditional methods into their teaching practice and curriculum, including the APY Lands Partnership of schools and its adoption of the Two-way Science program. One teacher who has done this particularly well has been Loren Wareing, the Personalised Learning Coordinator at Indulkana Anangu School in remote northwest South Australia.
Loren’s focus in literacy has been particularly successful. She has organised students, teachers, Anangu Educators and leaders into small learning literacy groups to make learning more accessible. This initiative has seen notable growth in children’s phonics skills and reduced classroom disruptions. The successful implementation of ‘Hands-On Phonics’ was presented and demonstrated to educators from other schools within the APY partnership.
Loren also collaborated with her colleagues to implement the Berry Street framework, which focuses on improved environments for children with trauma. She facilitated morning circles, hygiene routines, and introduced engaging activities which increased attendance and reduced anxious behaviours in the classroom. Loren’s active classroom presence and dedication to professional development have been crucial in supporting both students and other staff.
Immersed in the APY communities, Loren works closely with Anangu educators and the Pitjantjatjara Yankunytjatjara Education Committee to organise community activities. Her proactive engagement with the community has created a more collaborative environment between the school and families. Loren’s journey from aspiring teacher to educator in remote Aboriginal communities has led to her own significant personal and professional growth. As Deputy Principal, she supports staff and Early Career Teachers, ensuring they thrive in remote settings.
In the future, Loren wants to further contribute to remote communities and encourage more educators to embrace teaching opportunities in these areas.