Scott Darlow, Yorta Yorta man and acclaimed First Nations singer-songwriter, speaker and educator, brought his uniquely powerful brand of storytelling and advocacy to Nuriootpa High School on Monday of Week 6.

Performing to the whole school, Scott connected with both staff and students through a selection of his songs – including his hit cover of Goanna’s Solid Rock – personal stories and reflections designed to build understanding of First Nations culture, experience and history.

Following the performance students had the opportunity for guided reflection within classes, framed around Scott’s FLUTE philosophy. Using a FLUTE (Forgiveness, Love, Understanding, Tolerance and Empathy) lens students considered how the philosophy can be applied to real situations at school, which elements Nuriootpa High School needs most right now, and how this can be acted upon in small ways each day.

First Nation’s students had the opportunity to interview Scott, recording a podcast episode in the school’s new studio, while both mainstream and special options music classes were able to participate in immersive workshops with Scott.

To conclude his visit, Scott delivered a raw and emotive professional development session to staff. The hour-long session explored how staff, individually and collectively, can strengthen relationships with First Nations students and families, and how to embed reconciliation and First Nations history into everyday teaching practices.