The SWiRL community

In both Numbulwar and Urapunga, SWiRL is embedded within everyday school life. Principals, teachers and community members play a central role in shaping how the program operates, how relationships are built, and how literacy learning reflects local language, culture and priorities.

School leadership perspectives 

School leaders have consistently identified SWiRL as a program that supports student engagement while strengthening relationships between schools, families and visiting pre-service teachers.

"It is a win / win. We love having you here, the students love it. All the students enjoy the extra attention they receive from the SWiRL group."

- Merryn Curley, Principal, Numbulwar School

During the May 2025 delivery, school leadership also observed higher student attendance and engagement, particularly when compared with later-year deliveries. Term 1 scheduling was identified as supporting continuity of learning and participation.

In Urapunga, school leadership highlighted the importance of respectful, professional relationships in achieving positive outcomes for students and community.

"It is fabulous to see how appropriate and professional relationships between university students and school students lead to positive outcomes. When they work together, they foster literacy, engagement, cooperation, inclusion, and meaningful cultural interactions grounded in mutual respect."

- Lawry Mahon, Principal, Urapunga School

Teachers & classrooms

SWiRL pre-service teachers work alongside classroom teachers across early childhood and primary settings. Learning activities are co-planned with mentor teachers and adapted to local contexts, with a strong focus on literacy practices that reflect children’s lives and community knowledge.

At the conclusion of each delivery, celebration ceremonies are held in classrooms and at whole-school assemblies. Students receive their completed storybooks and participation certificates, reinforcing pride in learning and recognising their role as authors and storytellers.

Many Victoria University pre-service teachers have chosen to return to Urapunga for an additional four weeks, providing continued classroom support to the school.

Community leadership & trust 

Community members and Elders play a central role in supporting the day-to-day delivery of SWiRL. In Urapunga, a community Elder provided classroom support, assisted with language translation, and supported families to understand consent processes. Her involvement was central to building trust and supporting participation across the school community.

Parents and carers highlighted the importance of trust, safety and shared responsibility during the program.

"The kids, their parents/carers/elders trusted SWiRL with their children. The community welcomed the SWiRL group wherever they went."

- Urapunga parent

To support shared understanding, community barbecues were hosted at school sites during the first week of the program. These gatherings provided opportunities for families to meet the SWiRL team, learn about the program and strengthen relationships.

Cultural exchange & belonging 

Cultural exchange within SWiRL is reciprocal. Schools and community members share knowledge, language and stories, while visiting participants learn through listening, relationship-building and time on Country.

"Urapunga community gave the SWiRL mob skin names. This shows kinship / family  they are now connected."

- Urapunga assistant teacher

Reflection & continuous improvement 

School leadership and the SWiRL team recognise the importance of ongoing reflection and strengthening culturally appropriate practices. Challenges encountered during consent processes have informed improvements for future deliveries, developed in consultation with community partners.

"It’s not just about delivering a curriculum, but about building genuine relationships, showing respect for different ways of life."

- Preservice teacher