The Victoria Department of Education (VDE) requested the Village Response Collective (VRC) support their efforts to connect with kindergarten, primary school and local government staff to strengthen the participation of Pasifika children in kindergarten. Dr.M led the project and research phases with Agnes Fanene (nee Poto) leading community engagement. The final output was a 20 page report with findings and recommendations from 10 Pasifika mothers living in Victoria. It details their worldviews as Pasifika women grounding their own identity in an Australian context; whilst grappling with ways to instil cultural heritage to their children in tandem with holding a job, cultural commitments and handling financial pressures.

We are grateful to have this partnership with the VDE. Phase two of this project was in collaboration with VDE, Brimbank City Council, and City of Melton Council, where we hosted three community fono (meetings) to gather further insights from early childhood practitioners, parents, and community members to find ways to increase Pasifika children’s participation in kindergarten. This included examining potential barriers and exploring strategies to encourage participation.

If you wish to receive the report (Phase 1) and/or know more about membership or volunteering with us, please register your interest below. The Phase 2 report will be released in September.