There is a substantial body of research indicating that children do better when their parents or carers are involved in their education. Partnerships between families, schools and communities are particularly valuable in improving student outcomes.

It is not uncommon for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people to feel alienated from schools and early learning services as a result of their own negative experiences with the education system. Partnerships are therefore central to creating an inclusive environment and increasing trust between the school or early learning service and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander families. 

Establishing and maintaining a dedicated space where family and community members comfortably spend time can be an effective way to build this trust and can facilitate greater involvement of family and community in education. As a result, partnerships between the school or early learning service and the community are stronger and educational outcomes for children and students improve. Remember, partnerships with the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander community are the cornerstone to achieving all other RAP commitments.