The First Days of School in Australia, 1971

After the summer holidays, students are now back in class, some for the very first time. Have you ever wondered what these early school days were like for Australian kids in the 1970s? Filmed primarily at Hawthorn West Primary School in Melbourne, this 1971 clip is a window into Australia when it was redefining what children’s learning could be. Personal narration from a kindergarten schoolteacher offers precious insight: schools had a focus on independence, and teachers were still hashing out the best approach. Particularly when ‘proper kindergarten’ was still largely inaccessible. These kids with their distinctly 70s attire and briefcases may seem distant, but much will seem familiar for parents and guardians. The pain of separation, the busy but determined teacher, the joy of play and discovery. Watch the full documentary ‘I’m Going to School Today,’ on our channel @NFSAFilms From the National Film and Sound Archive of Australia Collection Title: I'm Going To School Today NFSA ID: 22856 Year: 1971 Credits: Production company: Australian Commonwealth Film Unit Director: Henry Lewes Director of Photography: Don McAlpine #AustralianHistory #EducationHistory #AustralianSchools #1970sAustralia #NFSA #FilmAustraliaCollection #AustralianDocumentary