Knox teacher disciplined over ‘distressing’ lesson

One of Sydney’s most prestigious schools has cautioned a Year 4 teacher over a “very distressing” lesson on indigenous history.

Knox Grammar School on Sydney’s upper north shore.

One of Sydney’s most prestigious schools has cautioned a Year 4 teacher over a “very distressing” lesson on indigenous history.

While giving a drama lesson at Knox Grammar School on Sydney’s upper north shore last Monday, a teacher asked the nine-year-old students to draw a representation of their family or heritage. After collecting the children’s work, the teacher tore up the drawings in front of the class.

The teacher then reportedly told the children the way they were now feeling was similar to how indigenous Australians felt when everything was taken from them.

A spokesman for Knox said the school did not support the teacher’s actions. “The school can confirm that the activity took place with a Year 4 class last week,” he said. “When the school became aware of the matter, it was immediately investigated. The teacher was extensively counselled and disciplined. The teacher has apologised to the students.

“While the school strongly supports the teaching of indigenous culture and heritage, we believe it needs to be taught in a sensitive and appropriate manner.”

Speaking to radio 2GB’s Ben Fordham, NSW Education Minister Rob Stokes said the school took the correct disciplinary action.

“Those sorts of things are clearly not age-appropriate and can be very distressing for young kids,” he said.

Founded in 1924 by the Presbyterian Church, Knox’s students include former prime minister Gough Whitlam and University of Sydney vice-chancellor Michael Spence.