Ngala Maya – meaning ‘Our Place’ in Noongar language – is a student-led program that fosters belonging for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students at Penrhos.
It is a space for connection – to culture, community and identity – where students are supported to engage, share and grow.
A place of belonging
Ngala Maya brings students together through cultural experiences, shared learning and community connection.
Through regular gatherings and events – both on campus and beyond – students build relationships with peers, connect with culture and engage with wider Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities.
Participation is always encouraged, but never expected. What matters most is that every student feels welcome, included and able to engage in a way that feels right for them.
A space to connect
Ngala Maya has a dedicated space within the Secondary School, providing a culturally safe and welcoming environment for students. This space supports connection, creativity and conversation – whether through mentoring, cultural activities or simply spending time together.
Students are supported by staff and mentors, with opportunities to access additional wellbeing and learning support as needed.
Student voice and leadership
Student voice sits at the centre of Ngala Maya. Senior students take on mentoring roles, supporting younger students and sharing their experiences. This strengthens connection across year levels and builds confidence, leadership and a strong sense of community.
Ngala Maya also connects with student-led initiatives across the College, including the Student Reconciliation Committee and College Reconciliation Captains.
Our commitment
Penrhos is committed to valuing and embedding Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander perspectives across our community. We celebrate culture, identity and contribution, and honour Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander ways of knowing, being and doing.
Through Ngala Maya and broader College initiatives, we create opportunities for shared learning, understanding and respect.
Reconciliation at Penrhos
Ngala Maya sits within our broader commitment to reconciliation and meaningful action.
Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP)
Penrhos launched its Reflect Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP) in 2022 following extensive consultation with our community.
The RAP guides our ongoing commitment to listening, learning and taking meaningful action. It is reviewed regularly as we continue our reconciliation journey.
Families and community members are invited to contribute to this work through our RAP Working Group.
Our vision for reconciliation
Penrhos is committed to learning, unlearning and relearning as we work towards reconciliation.
We strive to build strong intercultural understanding – acknowledging the histories, experiences and contributions of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.
Through truth-telling, respectful dialogue and genuine partnership, we aim to foster empathy, strengthen cultural identity and create a community where all voices are heard and respected.
Together, we are working towards a future where reconciliation is lived – not simply acknowledged.
To learn more about Ngala Maya or to get involved, please contact our Cultural Program Coordinator.
