Two Batchelor Institute students were recognised for their excellence in early childhood education at the recent 2021 Northern Territory Education and Care Awards in Darwin.

Cheryl Keighran, who works with the Borroloola Families as First Teachers, won the Outstanding Aboriginal Educator award. Sonia Munyarryun was a finalist in the same category.

Cheryl, a Garawa woman, was nominated for her commitment to early childhood development in Borroloola. She uses her cultural knowledge to weave the best of two-ways learning into her early years program.

This year, Cheryl completed her Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care at Batchelor Institute and will continue her Diploma of Early childhood Education in 2022.

Cheryl said she was very honoured, grateful and pleasantly surprised by the award.

Sonia Munyarryun completed her Diploma and Advanced Diploma of Education Support with Batchelor Institute. She works with Moulden Early Learning Centre as a Cultural Heritage and Language Officer, supporting children to develop their cultural identity.

Sonia’s work also supports Aboriginal children in foster care by embedding cultural knowledge and practice in the Centre programs and enabling foster families to become more aware and understanding of trauma on children’s social and emotional behaviour.

Sonia was delighted to be nominated and wants to further her career by studying her Bachelor of Education through Batchelor Institute.