WHO WE ARE
PYEC is an Anangu led organisation that assists via consultation to assist in the strategy for the education of Anangu in the APY and Maralinga Lands. PYEC provides leadership to ensure that Anangu children receive quality education and support in order to be successful in both Anangu and Piranpa (Non-Indigenous) ways.
HISTORY
PYEC’s roots are born from those in remote communities who wanted a say in the educational outcomes of their young.
The Aṉangu within these communities banded together and strengthened their connections across the region through common curriculum, literacy and numeracy approaches, site observations (including Coober Pedy, Yalata, Koonibba and Ceduna), shared planning and strategic conversations. This early initiative was supported through funding under the Commonwealth’s Remote Area Projects fund which was referred to by some at the time as ‘RAPA’ (courage in Pitjantjatjara).
By 1990, RAPA had transitioned to operate under the banner ‘PYEC’ and was handed policy control of education on the APY Lands in 1992 by the then minister Dennis Ralph.
This structural arrangement has been endorsed and confirmed by successive ministers and Chief Executives of education. After examining historical documents and speaking to former leaders with extensive experience in Aṉangu Education, it is clear that beyond the structural arrangements, the relationship between the Department of Education and PYEC education leaders is central to a strong education program in Aṉangu schools.
STRATEGIC
PLAN
Education for Anangu is strong.
In developing this Strategic Plan, Anangu have shared their perspectives and concerns about education in Anangu Schools.
PYEC’s vision has incorporated these messages to help those working in education to understand Anangu perspectives and to hear their voice.
Aṉangu children will be strong in their learning, their Kurunpa (spirit) and their Tjurkurpa (connection to country)
Aṉangu will be in the driver’s seat as leaders in education
We will create a new way in education, with Aṉangu and Priranpa working together
PYEC will give Anangu their voice in education and work together with others to make decisions about how education is run in The Lands as well as develop new programs and ideas, led by Aṉangu.
Download our 10 Year Strategic Plan Here
〰️
Download our 10 Year Strategic Plan Here 〰️
Staff
Anangu make up the majority of PYEC staff (80%). Many have come through the EC Emerging Leaders program and are passionate about running their own organisation and learning how to understand and meet all of their stakeholders needs.
Rueben Burton
Rueben is employed by the Department for Education (SA) as the Director of PYEC. Rueben plays a key role in ensuring Anangu voice is included in all strategic decisions and represents PYEC at a regional, state and national level.
Ingrid Kenny
Ingrid coordinates all of the activities in the east of the APY lands and supervises NETT Engagement Officers in Pukatja, Indulkana and supports activities in Kenmore Park.
Con KEN
Con is an Engagement Officer in the NETT Kunpuntjakau program. He works with families, children and young people in Fregon to support school attendance.
Joan Peters
Joan is an Engagement Officer in the NETT Kunpuntjakau program. She works with families, children and young people in Pukatja to support school attendance.
Paul Malcolm
Paul is the General Manager who oversees the day to day operations of PYEC by implementing the Strategic Plan. The GM also ensures that the board are supported with good information in order to make important decisions.
Inawantji scales
Ina provides governance support and leadership for PYEC. Based in Alice Springs Ina organises all aspects of governance including agenda, minutes, consultations with communities, strategic events and works with Paul and Rueben to keep the organisations governance strong.
Mark Campbell
Mark works across the APY Lands and focuses on the Mimili and Amata communities. Mark is passionate about supporting cultural education.
Zibeon Fielding
Zibeon is located in Adelaide and supports the development of schools attendance projects.
Victor tunkin
Victor is an Engagement Officer in the NETT Kunpuntjakau program. He works with families, children and young people in Amata to support school attendance.
Thomas Wayne
Thomas is an Engagement Officer in the NETT Kunpuntjakau program. He works with families, children and young people in Pukatja to support school attendance.
SAM KEN
Sam is an Engagement Officer in the NETT Kunpuntjakau program. He works with families, children and young people in Fregon to support school attendance.
Anwar young
Anwar is an Engagement Officer in the NETT Kunpuntjakau program. He works with families, children and young people in Amata to support school attendance.
Mikhala Stevens
Mikhala is the Administration Officer who runs the main office in Pukatja.