
Mary Ward International and the Loreto Sisters have announced a six-year partnership with the Aurora Education Foundation, an organisation dedicated to supporting First Nations students to achieve their educational and employment goals.
The partnership will focus on two key programs: Aurora’s High School Program and the Redefining Indigenous Success in Education (RISE) Project. Both initiatives place culture, identity, and wellbeing at the heart of education, walking with students throughout their high school journey as they consider their pathways to further study and employment.
The High School Program supports students from Year 7 through to their first year beyond school with tutoring, cultural enrichment, and tailored support such as Aurora Support Plans to purchase necessary items like uniforms and Wi-Fi. Guided by elders, mentors and staff, the program helps students strengthen identity, build confidence, and pursue their aspirations.
RISE is a five-year study creating Australia’s first large-scale dataset on Indigenous education outcomes. By evaluating three models of Aurora’s High School Program with more than 500 students (growing to 800 by 2027), RISE is uncovering which supports – academic, cultural, or wellbeing – make the greatest difference. These insights will guide future investment and help shape more effective pathways for future students.
“Partnership has always been at the heart of our mission,” said Mary Ward International executive officer Kirstin Del Beato.
“We know that lasting change comes from listening, providing women with the tools to learn, and lifting them up so their voices are heard.
‘Our work with Aurora continues that approach, placing First Nations voices at the centre and ensuring young women have the resources and opportunities they need to thrive.”
Over the next six years, these projects will accompany hundreds of students through their school years, connect families with critical support, and generate new evidence through the RISE Project to shape the future of Indigenous education in Australia.
FULL STORY
Stronger Together: The Aurora Education Foundation (Mary Ward International Australia)