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Box 1.37KEY MESSAGES• In 2006, 8 per cent of Indigenous people aged 14 years were not participating inschool education compared with 1 per cent of non-Indigenous 14 year olds(table 3A.3.2).• Over the period 2002 to 2006, the Indigenous retention rate to year 9 was relativelystable (figure 3.3.2).• In 2005, the retention rate for Indigenous students to year 9 was 99 per cent. In2006, the retention rate for the same group of students (now in year 10) haddeclined to 91 per cent (figure 3.3.2 and table 3A.3.1).Indigenous cultural studies in school curriculum and involvement of Indigenouspeople in their development and deliveryThe inclusion of Indigenous cultural studies in school curricula is widely regarded(by both Indigenous and non-Indigenous people) as being a significant factor in anIndigenous student’s self-esteem and achievement at school. It can also contributeto the understanding and acceptance of Indigenous people by the wider community.The participation of Indigenous people in the development and delivery ofIndigenous cultural studies is also regarded as highly desirable.Box 1.38KEY MESSAGES• Between 2001 and 2005, the number of Indigenous teachers and Aboriginal andIslander Education Workers in schools increased from 3238 to 3596 (table 7.3.1).• Some primary and secondary schools are incorporating Indigenous studies in theircurricula, and Indigenous culture and perspectives are being incorporated into VETprograms offered at school. This can improve the number of Indigenous studentscompleting year 12 and improve all students’ knowledge and appreciation ofIndigenous culture (boxes 7.3.2 to 7.3.6).38 OVERCOMINGINDIGENOUSDISADVANTAGE 2007