South Australian Aboriginal Secondary Training Academy (SAASTA)
The South Australian Aboriginal Secondary Training Academy (SAASTA) offers young Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students a range of highly engaging learning and personal development opportunities.
The SAASTA program is a key component of the Department for Education’s 10-year Aboriginal Education Strategy aiming to improve outcomes and success for Aboriginal families and students. It builds on the education offered in schools, giving students opportunities for ongoing personal growth and cultural experience.
Our academy works with school leaders and local communities to give students the skills, opportunities and confidence to dream, believe and achieve in the areas of education, employment, sport, healthy living and connection with their culture.
Our SAASTA students are encouraged to aim high and raise the bar of expectation they place on themselves and their peers, particularly in the areas of attendance, participation, educational performance and behaviour. Both male and female students in years 10, 11 and 12 who are studying the South Australian Certificate of Education (SACE) can apply to join SAASTA.
Academy students can expect:
- to be led by quality, engaging and inspiring teaching staff and tutors
- their own academy room, providing a space for academy classes and activities
- a complete academy uniform, senior’s jumper and playing gear for sports competitions and carnivals
- individual support and mentoring
- cultural inclusiveness and connectedness
- to learn leadership skills
- to increase self-confidence and resilience
- to be ready for employment or further education
- to be heard
- a fee-free place in the program.
We are proud that in 2022 approximately 70% of Stage 2 SAASTA students achieved a B grade or higher.
SAASTA Connect
SAASTA Connect is a curriculum program for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students in years 8 and 9 providing a pathway for entry into the SAASTA program in senior years. The program is a series of culturally appropriate curriculum resources that focus on healthy living, cultural identity, Aboriginal language, traditional sports and respectful relationships.
Within the program the Ngarrindjeri language is taught as a key part of the curriculum. Language lessons will be delivered by the Connect teacher in collaboration with an Aboriginal person with extensive knowledge of Ngarrindjeri culture.
The program incorporates learning on and about country as well as promotes engagement with elders and the local Indigenous community, ensuring students engage in culturally appropriate and inclusive learning.