The Charles Sturt University (CSU) School of Teacher Education at Dubbo, in collaboration with TAFE NSW Western Institute, will introduce the Certificate 1 in Aboriginal language (Wiradjuri language) to be run on the Dubbo campus from Thursday 26 February for CSU students. Ms Maria Bennet, lecturer at the School of Teacher Education, said this TAFE-certified course will be taught by local teacher Ms Diane McNaboe and aims to equip pre-service teachers and school-related personnel with understanding and knowledge fundamental to working with Aboriginal students, families and communities. “The course aims to provide learners with the basic skills and strategies to achieve Aboriginal language competencies,” Ms Bennet said. “This will provide a basic knowledge and appreciation of backgrounds, languages, beliefs and customs.”