Makarraṯa is an on-country boarding program for high school students located 114 kilometres from Yirrkala in Northeast Arnhem Land.
The Makarraṯa Boarding School opened its doors in 2019, and educates all senior students from the Laynhapuy Homelands School (LHS).
Over the past four years, the boarding school has recorded great accomplishments with high rates of retention and attendance.
In 2023, there have been seven students graduate year 12 from the program, with another 30 students enrolled for the 2024 school year.
The 2024 school year will also see the Makarraṯa Boarding Program expanded to include year 9 students. At present Makarraṯa caters for all students in Years 10, 11 and 12 at LHS.
The school has a strong pathways focus with many students moving into traineeships and supported work placements.
Another encouraging aspect of the boarding program is the improvement in the student's social and emotional wellbeing as well as their positive student behaviour when at the boarding facility.
Learning on-country activities allow students to learn in a culturally appropriate way that values prior knowledge and experience.
Incorporating this type of learning into the school allows students to demonstrate and improve on strengths and take pride in culture, identity and Yolŋu knowledge systems.
Quotes attributable to Minister for Education, Eva Lawler:
"The Laynhapuy Homelands has some 30 Homeland communities, as such the Makarraṯa Boarding Program was established to ensure every student has access to a quality secondary education.
"This model allows students to who live in the most remote parts of our country to stay on-country, whilst receiving an education which will see them become valued and respected contributors their communities.
"Congratulations to all seven students who graduated this year, and good luck to the 30 enrolled in 2024, education is an exciting journey which will take you far in life."
Quote attributable to Laynhapuy Homelands School Principal, Abi White:
"The Makarraṯa On Country boarding program is a ground up initiative that was requested by homeland families and leaders and so its success is due to that community support.
"The fact that the students remain on-country to achieve their educational goals is the stand out element of the model."
Northern Territory Government
