Katie Thompson is a Bluearth affiliate working with schools and communities in Northern Territory and Western Australia to share the Bluearth Approach, under Be.Me Movement Education.
This is her story about becoming a part of Bluearth and what her role involves.
“I started with Bluearth five years ago, after leading a hike on the Larapinta Trail for Bluearth founder Mal Freake and a group of fundraisers. During this five-day trip I learnt much about Bluearth and was curious to learn more. A job was coming up, based in Alice Springs, and I was encouraged to apply. I got the job and never felt like all my talents came together so in synergy as they do with Bluearth. For example, sharing my passion for movement, championing cultural integrity and understanding, educating young people, and being upbeat and positive, bringing joy to others.
I am passionate about young people realising their own potential. Schools are changing and offering new methods of learning, leaving behind that one-method-fits-all approach. Our teachers are exhausted with the huge amount of work they are required to do not only in the classroom but in meeting the curriculum. Working in this space gives me a chance to create real change for kids, but also to upskill teachers, support staff and community in a way that encourages better engagement in their spaces. Using physical activity as a medium for literacy, numeracy, social and emotional learning etc is not only improving the physical health of our young people but empowering them with more focus, resilience and ability to self-regulate whilst having fun!
I love the flexibility of having my own business Be.Me Movement Education, and being able to create collaborations to better suit our communities. Programs are more successful with community input and engagement; they know their children and young people and working with them to create programs is so satisfying. It makes me proud.
I work in many different domains including schools, preschools, prisons, juvenile detention centres, and women’s shelters. Last year we visited Kununurra and ran a week of professional learning for the local community; anyone involved with young people or community groups were encouraged to attend. We are heading back in the first week of May to reconnect and continue that learning journey, ensuring the sustainability of our work in that region (thanks to funding from Kununurra Warringarri Aboriginal Corporation).
A key aspect of my role over the last half a decade has been the Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP). We are currently in the very final stages of RAP number two, awaiting graphic design. Reconciliation is a passion for me. Living on Arrente Country and working with First Nation people every day I fight to see their unique knowledge and lived experience recognised.”
Thanks Katie for sharing your Bluearth journey so far!
To stay up to date with Katie and Be.Me Movement Education, be sure to give these accounts a follow:
Facebook – www.facebook.com/BeME-Movement-Education-101471979105744
Instagram – @bluearthmovement