Four new public schools opening in South Australia next year have revealed their unique uniforms, designed by Ngarrindjeri artist Jordan Lovegrove.
Students who will attend the schools after they launch in Aldinga, Angle Vale, Goolwa, and Whyalla next year had the opportunity to reveal the artistic uniform designs at Aldinga Payinthi College on Tuesday.
Lovegrove told NITV News that he was "stoked" to work on a project which allowed him to showcase both his talent and culture.
"I've worked on a few artworks for schools but never anything that has gathered this much attention," he said.
The artwork features a large meeting place and pathway that symbolises the students' unity in travelling through their learning journeys.
Students from Aldinga, Angle Vale, Goolwa, and Whyalla will have the opportunity to reveal the artistic uniform designs. Source: Supplied
Mr Lovegrove told NITV News that being entrusted with the design of these unique uniforms felt like an opportunity to be a part of a huge shift in the appreciation shown to Indigenous culture by the broader community.
"Wearing a uniform like this is an opportunity that I never had," he said.
"There is so much we didn't even learn about our Aboriginal culture in school, so it is a big step."
With the design and concept of the uniforms decided in collaboration with the local community, they will be available to students in a wide variety of styles, including rugby jumpers, polo shirts and trousers.
Whyalla Secondary College has confirmed they will offer unique uniforms to students for their school sports competitions.
Students and teachers displaying the new uniforms. Source: Supplied
After the schools open next year, students and parents will receive information on how to access the newly designed uniforms.
Minister for Education John Gardner said in a statement that they are a significant milestone.
“These school uniforms will play an important role in creating a sense of identity, belonging, and pride among students and their communities," Minister Gardner said.
Principal of Aldinga's Payinthi College Alison Colbeck told press at the launch event that Mr Lovegrove's designs were an indication of the organisation's commitment to growing cultural influence and paying respect to the Aboriginal community.
"The piece represents the college, but is connected by all the communities and pathways that we hope to make," she said.
