Unlock Literacy focuses on improving literacy levels among “early readers” – children aged five to nine. In 2023, we continued implementing the model in partnership with Warlpiri communities in the Northern Territory communities of Lajamanu, Willowra and Nyirripi.

Originally developed by World Vision International, this evidence-based model has been adapted into 35 languages and applied in over 24 countries worldwide.

Unlock Literacy promotes five core reading skills: alphabet knowledge, phonemic awareness, fluency, vocabulary and comprehension. It emphasises family, community and local languages and environments in literacy development and overall learning.

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We’ve been working in Warlpiri communities for many years now. In 2023, community members and children engaged more intentionally in activities as the program became more familiar to them. Community facilitators have creatively developed Warlpiri-themed games and activities for children participating in the program. These resources have been well-received by the children and help to enhance literacy learning.

In each location, activities are guided and shaped by reference groups. Members include Warlpiri Training and Trust representatives, casual staff, children and other community members. This community-led approach enhances engagement and ownership.

Throughout the year, there were two reference group meetings in Lajamanu, two in Willowra and three in Nyirripi. Groups emphasise the importance of Warlpiri language and culture and ensure activities are relevant to children’s everyday lives. They have a particular focus on supporting bush trips and other on-country learning experiences and encourage Elders to be involved.

In April 2023, approximately 80 community members attended a book launch for Ninu Kurlu: All About Bilbies. Children at Nyirripi school storyboarded, wrote and edited the book themselves during a workshop earlier in the year. Also in attendance were rangers from Newhaven Wildlife Sanctuary, staff from the Batchelor Institute and PAW Media, who recorded interviews with the children for their radio show.

Young Mob is a positive youth development program that equips participants – aged 10-20 years – with cultural knowledge and values. This supports them in building a positive identity and essential life skills. 

The program features learning activities in schools, communities and on Country, led by First Nations facilitators using a First Nations learning approach. Young people involved in the program are referred to as leaders, and some participate in camps, road trips and cultural exchanges. 

In 2023, for the first time since the COVID-19 pandemic, face-to-face sessions resumed without interruption. This allowed us to broaden our reach by enrolling three new schools: Maitland, Rutherford and Inner Sydney.