Marngrook Kids is a dynamic education program that brings First Nations culture to life through the joy of movement and the power of play.  
 
Inspired by the traditional Aboriginal game of Marngrook - widely acknowledged as a forerunner to modern Australian football - this unique program uses physical activity, storytelling and cultural games to foster deep learning, connection and cultural awareness in children. 

Co-designed with First Nations community members, The Long Walk and Essendon Football Club, the 45-minute program embeds First Nations perspectives in developmentally appropriate, engaging and joyful learning experiences aligned to the Early Years Learning Framework and Victorian Curriculum. 

Click here to express your interest in a Marngrook Kids session.

Learning Outcomes include:  

  • Through shared cultural experiences, children build pride in themselves and an understanding of diverse identities and histories. 
  • Children are connected with and contribute to their world 
  • Marngrook Kids fosters respect for Country and Community, helping children understand the interconnectedness of people and nature. 
  • Physical movement, mindfulness activities, and cultural rhythms support children’s physical and emotional wellbeing. 
  • Active participation in cultural games and storytelling cultivates curiosity, creativity, and problem-solving. 
  • Through music, movement and collaborative play, children develop both verbal and non-verbal communication skills. 

 

Content Includes: 

  • Traditional Games: Playing traditional Indigenous games such as Marngrook, Kai, Edor and Boojur kombang to develop physical skills, teamwork and social interaction. 
  • Storytelling: Sharing traditional narratives to teach about the land, animals and creation. 
  • Language: Incorporating local First Nations language into delivery, for example greetings and numbers.  
  • Art and Symbols: Learning First Nations art symbols through displays of Essendon’s Dreamtime jumpers. 
  • Artifacts and Tools: A safe, hands on demonstration of traditional objects, including clap sticks, emu caller, coolamon and marngrook ball. 

 

Delivery: 

  • The program is delivered by a First Nations facilitator from the Long Walk and a member of the Essendon Football Club’s education team. 
  • Sessions run for 45 minutes. 
  • The cost of a session is $400 +gst and includes a suite of educator and student resources.  
  • The program is available to Early Learning Centres, Kindergartens and Primary Schools. 

“Marngrook Kids delivered a thoughtful and joyful incursion at our Kindergarten. I especially enjoyed how cultural knowledge is woven through the experience in accessible and relatable ways for young children. The session was fun, active and highly engaging. Thank you so much Marngrook Kids.”

- Progress Kindergarten, Ascot Vale