Nestled in the Warddeken Indigenous Protected Area in West Arnhem Land, the Nawarddeken Academy was established in 2015 at the behest of local Indigenous elders It began as a modest one-teacher classroom under a tarp in Kabulwarnamyo. Today, it has expanded to four registered independent schools, including the recently inaugurated Kunmayali Secondary School in 2025. This growth reflects a profound commitment to delivering bicultural education that harmoniously blends Western academic learning with Indigenous knowledge systems, languages, and seasonal cycles.

“Bridging now to the next”, the Academy's curriculum is deeply rooted in the Kuwarddewardde Malkno (Stone Country Seasonal Calendar), offering students experiential, place-based learning that celebrates Indigenous culture and traditions. This approach not only enhances educational outcomes but also fosters a strong sense of identity and pride among students. Community involvement is integral, with local elders, rangers, and families actively participating in the educational journey, ensuring that learning is both culturally relevant and empowering. By equipping students to navigate and contribute to both Indigenous and non-Indigenous worlds, the Nawarddeken Academy stands as a beacon to develop the next generation of our custodians, nurturing the leaders of tomorrow while honouring the wisdom of the past.

Being the season of Yekke, it’s the right time to do cool burning on country. Two of our senior students, Andrick and Tyson explain in Kunwinjku, the safety equipment that one needs to do this important job.