Bridging Now Till Next: Reconciliation Week 2025

Each year, National Reconciliation Week provides an opportunity for Australians to reflect, learn and take meaningful steps towards a more united and respectful future. In 2025, the theme “Bridging Now to Next” invites all Australian’s to consider how we can learn from the past, engage in the present and commit to action for future generations.

As educators, we have a responsibility to ensure the next generation understands the importance of truth-telling, cultural respect and equity. That’s why we’ve created a free Reconciliation Week Resource Pack to help you bring this year’s theme to life in your classroom or learning environment.

Head to Reconciliation Australia for all of your posters and colouring in activities.

What Does “Bridging Now to Next” Mean?

This year’s theme speaks to the ongoing journey of reconciliation in Australia. It calls us to:

Recognise and reflect on historical truths
Commit to action and justice in the present
Inspire future generations to continue the work

Whether you’re an early childhood educator or a high school teacher, now is the time to bridge the knowledge, relationships, and responsibilities that lead us to lasting change.

Reconciliation is not a moment—it’s a movement.

Free Classroom Activity: “Bridging Now to Next – Building Our Reconciliation Bridge”

To support educators across early childhood, primary and secondary settings, we’ve developed a FREE Reconciliation Week Activity Pack that includes:

✅ Bridge Timeline Activity – Explore 6 significant milestones in Australia’s reconciliation journey and position them visually using our interactive bridge template.

✅ Student Reflection Sheet – Encourage primary and secondary learners to connect with the past, think about the present, and commit to future actions.

✅ Educator Reflection Sheet – Linked to the AITSL Professional Standards and EYLF outcomes, this tool supports teachers to reflect on their own cultural capacity.

✅ Suggested Add On – Bridging Now to Next Presentation – A ready-to-use presentation to guide learners through the history and significance of each event. Details the 10 key events and notes their contribution to reconciliation in Australia. Click HERE for the Presentation.

🧠 Learning Focus:

Understand key milestones in Australia’s reconciliation journey
Reflect on current responsibilities and cultural learning
Commit to future action and personal growth

👩‍🏫 Who’s it for?

Early Childhood Educators
Primary Teachers (Years 3–6)
Secondary Teachers and Students
Education Leaders and Professional Development

Linked to: AITSL Teacher Standards (1.3, 2.4, 3.4, 6.2, 7.4) & Australian Curriculum v9.0 (HASS, Civics, English)

Ideas for Using the Pack in Your Learning Space

Here are a few ways educators are using this free resource:

🧠 As a class timeline discussion: Introduce each historical moment over the week and add to the bridge together.
✍️ Reflection journaling: Use the student sheets to guide writing sessions or yarning circles.
🧑‍🏫 Staff PD session: Use the educator reflection as part of a professional learning meeting.
🎨 Bridge display wall: Invite students to display their completed bridges in the classroom or hallway.

Ways to Celebrate National Reconciliation Week in Your Learning Environment.

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🌱 Early Childhood Ideas

📚 Read picture books by Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander authors (e.g. Welcome to Country by Aunty Joy Murphy, Family by Aunty Fay Muir)

🎨 Create a classroom artwork based on the themes of togetherness and respect

🪃 Use Aboriginal symbol stamps and storytelling resources to engage in dramatic play

👣 Walk on Country — go for a nature walk and discuss caring for Country.

🏫 Primary School Activities

📅 Create a class timeline of key reconciliation milestones using the Bridge Activity

💬 Host a “Yarning Circle” where students can share what reconciliation means to them

🖐🏽 Make commitment posters or pledge walls with actions students will take toward reconciliation

🎶 Learn and perform songs from First Nations artists or language groups.

🎓 Secondary School Projects

🎥 Produce short films or podcasts exploring the theme “Bridging Now to Next”

📰 Research and present reports on the Uluru Statement from the Heart and The Voice Referendum

🤝 Invite a local First Nations guest speaker to lead a conversation on history and action

📢 Organise a student-led reconciliation event or assembly.

Why Resources Like This Matter

Embedding First Nations perspectives in meaningful, respectful and authentic ways helps students:

Develop cultural understanding and empathy
Acknowledge truth-telling as part of Australian history
Become future leaders who value equity and reconciliation

By using culturally informed resources created by First Nations educators and artists, you’re not only enriching student learning — you’re walking the bridge from now to next.

Final Thoughts

Reconciliation Week is a powerful opportunity to centre truth, voice, and action in education.
This year, let’s walk the bridge — together — from “Now” to “Next.”

Through reflective learning, honest conversations, and ongoing action, educators and students can play a leading role in shaping a more just, connected, and culturally safe future for all.