The ACTF has established a number of innovative education programs in partnership with schools, festivals, education departments, the entertainment industry and other organisations throughout Australia.
Each program is focused on improving student outcomes, and promotes both personal and wider community development.
In March 2011, every primary school in Australia was sent a teaching kit developed by SES Agencies, in partnership with the ACTF and the Australasian Fire and Emergency Service Authorities Council (AFAC). This kit was an important part of the SES Li’L Larikkins Natural Hazards Safety Program, which aimed to educate young children on the dangers of floods, storms, cyclones and tsunamis.
In November 2010, a national awareness and education campaign was launched using characters from the L’iL Larikkins 3D animation series*. As well as 10 x 30 second TV commercials, a Teacher’s Resource (DVD-ROM) was developed to educate young children about natural hazards within Australia. The resource incorporates the 10 safety messages with more than 30 teaching strategies and student activity sheets, specific background information on natural disasters and a comprehensive listing of additional resource material.
The program, funded through the Attorney-General’s Department 2010-2011 National Emergency Management Program, complements the work emergency service agencies around Australian undertake in delivering community education, awareness and engagement programs.
Floods and cyclones are a strong reminder that awareness and education programs are vital. By targeting young, it will help ensure communities are more resilient and better prepared for such natural hazards in the future. Plus, children have shown to be good household advocates, passing on safety messages and equipping them with age appropriate actions to follow and develop with their families.
*Li’L Larikkins is a 3D animation series created by Leigh O’Brien and produced by the Ettamogah Group, in Melbourne Australia.
WINNER: 2011 Australian Teachers of Media (ATOM) Award for Best Primary Educational Video Resource
